Grand Island High School News Web Page 2015
Grand Island High School Website
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Principal
Dan Quartley
Community Use of Track/Outside Athletic Fields at Ransom Road
Sports Briefs - December 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 12/23/2015"
GIHS Students Share the Happiness - December 2015
Click photos for larger view.
GIHS Deca students have been helping the Neighbors Foundation distribute food for families for 20 years. Along the way, Student Council members have joined the group, and this year 33 students helped out. On the morning of Thursday, December 17th, students unloaded nine pallets of food collected at the schools, and door to door in GI neighborhoods. A total of 100 individuals and 61 families are receiving turkeys, hams, non-perishables, gift cards, gifts and toys from the many donations. Say Cheese Pizza on Love Road donated 60 pizza gift certificates, Agri Foods donated cookies for all the families. Tops Market discounted the cost of the turkey and ham. Many elementary students donated money and in one instance, a gift card, bought with an allowance.Sports Briefs - December 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 12/17/2015"
GIHS Fall Sports News - December 2015
Niagara Gazette names Ryan Buzby Player of the YearThe Niagra Falls Gazette has named GIHS sophomore Ryan Buzby as its Boys Cross Country Player of the Year. "Finished fourth in the Class B State Qualifier with a time of 17:46...finished third in the NFL Championships at Beaver Island State Park with a time of 17:35...ran a 17:49 at the Class B State Championships at Monroe-Woodbury HS."
Jake Nowak - BOCES Featured Student of the Month - December 2015
Erie 1 BOCES has selected Jake Nowak, a senior from Grand Island High School, as the featured student of the month. Jake was selected from BOCES' instructional cooperative of 2,700 students across the region. Jake is enrolled in the Welding program at Erie 1 BOCES Kenton Career & Technical Center under the instruction of Frank Rosiek. In addition to excellent attendance and grades, Jake was selected for his work ethic. According to Rosiek, "...his hard work and willingness to learn new skills is commendable. Jake is always prepared and willing to tackle any project or task given to him." Following graduation in June, Jake is planning on attending college and will pursue a career in the field of engineering.
"I came to the Kenton Center because I wanted to learn a skill to help pay for college and to develop a skill that would accelerate my goal of becoming an engineer. Being part of the Welding program has provided me with great opportunities and has opened many doors for me. The Welding program has allowed me to take something different than the traditional classes and also learn a skill that may help in the future." As part of public education, Erie 1 BOCES offers a variety of career and technical programs during the regular school day to high school students in Erie County. High school students interested in learning more about how they can participate in various programs such as welding, web and gaming technologies, nursing or aviation technology, should visit www.e1b.org/cte or speak with their high school counselor.
GIHS Fall Sports News - December 2015
Niagara Gazette names Kyle Burns Player of the YearGIHS senior Kyle Burns was named the Niagara Falls Gazette Boys Volleyball Player of the Year. "Outside hitter helped lead the Vikings to a Niagara Frontier League crown and sectional final appearance...Four year varsity starter was named first team All-NFL and second team All-WNY...Led GI with 316 kills and racked up 197 digs, 41 blocks and 52 aces."
Sports Briefs - December2015
Click "Sports Briefs 12/10/2015"
GIHS Fall Sports News - December 2015
Niagara Gazette names Players of the YearBoys Soccer - GIHS senior Troy Brady was named the Niagara Gazette Boys Soccer Player of the Year. "Led Grand Island with 27 goals and 15 assists on the year. Scored in the Far West Regional to help the Vikings advance to the state tournament. Was named first team All-Western New York and all -state."
Girls soccer - GIHS junior Madisyn Pezzino was named Co-Player of the Year with Emily Kelly of Wilson. "Madisyn led Section VI with 53 goals, breaking her own school record for most goals in a single season. Broke Jessica Remmes' school record for career goals on October 20th. Led Grand Island to a Niagara Frontier League title."
Football - GIHS senior Chris Aronica was named to the Niagara Gazette All-Area Football team. Chris had 26 tackles and 1 sack this year. "Team captain led an offensive line that helped two running backs rush for over 500 yards apiece. Was named a Trench Trophy nominee for his performance in week 4." Honorable mention was made to RB/LB Jake Niland.
Wanted: Guest Conductor of the GIHS Wind Ensemble! - December 2015
Attention all Holiday enthusiasts! This year, along with the GI Music Boosters annual cookie sale, you have the wonderful opportunity to conduct Grand Island's very own Wind Ensemble as they play Leroy Anderson's traditional "Sleigh Ride" at the Holiday concert! On Thursday, December 10th, chances will be available to purchase allowing you to be chosen as Guest Conductor of Grand Island's Wind Ensemble along with your very own baton! You can buy 1 chance for $1, 6 for 5$, 13 for $10 or 30 for $20! The concert will be held on Thursday, December 10th at 7:30PM in the newly renovated Grand Viking Theatre along with ther annual Cookie Sale. All proceeds from this event will go towards the Grand Island Music Boosters, who continue to support the district's music program. Come join us drive the sleigh into the holiday season with this spectacular Grand Island tradition! GIHS 1st Quarter High Honor Roll - December 2015
9th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Melina Aceti, Lauren Baeumler, Samantha Bailey, Justin Chadima, Lexie Diaz, Sara Gorton, Nicholas Hess, Gianna Horvath, Nathan Hunt, Celia Jones, Megan Kennedy, Alex Laschinger, Allisen Lepenven, Grace LoHouse, Elisabeth Lupp, Rhys Mendel, William Person, Trevor Samplinski, Eric Scalise, Laura Schultz, Emma Sullivan, Natalie Turck, Marie Wagar, Christian Whetham, Bethany Wolcott, James Worrall
10th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Tori Appoloney, Evan Bender, Tyler Bernatovicz, Maddison Bower, Ryan Buzby, Julianna DeSimone, Jenette DiLaura, Alexander Dodge, Jordan Eckrote, Jessica Faso, Philip Gentz, John Griffin, Jennifer Hinaman, Robert Hodan, Marissa Hovey, Anam Hussain, Elizabeth Ishmael, Cross Kalp, Elisabeth Krstevski, Anthony Leone, Matthew Logel, Alyssa Luzak, Arthur Meaney, Hallie Mingoia, Nicholas Nowocien, Natalie O’Brien, Taylor Raine, Megan Stanley, Jack Steinagel, Stephen Sweeney, Jenna Tavano, Andrew Thompson, Gracie Tompkins, Luke Traina, John VanderMey, Theresa West, Sara Wolcott
11th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Liam Atkins, Kristen Atkinson, Karli Burford, Sophia Castillo, Samuel Eichel, Cole Ellsworth, Meghan Frisch, Adam Frosolone, Olivia Johnson, Brennen Joslyn, Genavieve Koyn, Lauren LoTempio, Kristopher Masiello, Catherine Merletti, Owen Morrish, Kassie Moss, Garrett Robinson, Lucas Robinson, MaryElisabeth Rustowicz, William Scalzo, Kelly Schlifke, Brianna Smith, Jessica Surace, Lauryn Swanson, Marianthi Vasiliadis, Jenna VeRost, Cameron Watt
12th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Jill Anderson, Emily Augugliaro, Adam Bevilacqua, Natalie Braun, Zachary Breeden, Dominique Capizzi, Taylor Cecere, Adam Dryfhout, Cydney Fairbairn, Benjamin Freedman, Marissa Freedman, Madison Green, Kali Hausrath, Kaitlin Hoy, Sydney Keane, Michaela Kozek, Liana Lombardo, Emily Nobumoto, Sammantha Reynolds, Githa Rizkiani, Emelie-jo Scheffler, Cassie Shickluna, Cameron Smith, Alex Whetham, Dakaylah Winfield, Brian Wynne
GIHS 1st Quarter Honor Roll - December 2015
9th GRADE HONOR
Brianna Bachman, Quinton Becker, Sarah Berlinger, Brianna Beyer, Joseph Botticello, Nicholas Carey, Alexander Castillo, Zachary Caughill, Alexa Chiarenza, Hannah Chorey, Ryann Colan, Hannah Cool, Mia Devirgilio, Annaliese DiCarlo, Lindsey Diehl, Linda Eichler, Cameron Fairbairn, Allison Fluker, Liam Hart, Trevor Hauer, Brady Hofmeyer, Austin Hogan, Kaitlyn Hollederer, William Hoover, Ryan Jellinick, Diamond Jones, Nicholas Kawecki, Brandon Kinney, Madison Koeppel, Elizabeth Koyn, Margaret Kubanek, Emily Kurtzhalts, Amanda Lawrence, Nicholas Lindaman, Madison Liss, Emma Mahoney, Allison McDonald, Bridget Neeson, Jacob Nelson, Dalton Nyitrai, Christopher O'Connor, Jordan Pachla, Lydia Pratt, McKenna Prochaska, Miranda Proctor, Nathan Reichel, Lindsay Robinson, Rhett Robinson, Tyler Russell, Dylan Russo, Ciara Scalzo, Allyson Schoener, Anthony Seifert, Cameron Sionko, Julia Slazyk, William Soos, Easton Speer, Benjamin Szabo, Grace Thorpe, Wyatt Tollner, Hannah Ullrich, Joy VanderMey, Konstantinos Vasiliadis, Kaitlyn Warakomski, Ryan Wellence, Grace Wright, LeeAnn Wright, Amanda Ziehm
10th GRADE HONOR
Sama Abdelal, Bayan Abdellatif, Colin Bellinger, Ruby Benz, Eva Bobeck, Kayla Booker, Victoria Botticello, Rosemarie Boyko, Victoria Brawn, Jason Breeden, Madilynn Brydalski, Sarah Burns, Victoria Busch, Sarah Bykowicz, Derek Callen, Nathan Canazzi, Matthew Carlson, Thomas Cecere, Lauren Chadwick, Emily Cordero, Aleece Cruz, Gabriel D’Addario, Jaynie Decker, Dylan DeGlopper, Isabel Dickinson, Eliza Dudziak, Michael Ellegate, Alana Enright, Abigail Fay, Grace Federico, Emily Fred, Ryan Frost, Samanatha Garcia, Mark Giancola, John Glose, Jessica Gonda, James Grinchishin, Kaitlyn Grybel, Alicia Haak, Joshua Hannibal, Charles Hegarty, Madelyn Heyden, Madeline Hjalmarson, Sydney Hoerner, Joshua Hoy, Nicole Hoy, Jerry Huange, Conner Hutton, Nicholas Kam, Ryan Kernin, Joseph Killian, Shannon Klein, Angelina Koloshuk, Hannah Kurek, Tess Lariviere, Brendan Larsen, David Lesinski, Nathan Lindaman, Laura Link, Jason Lupp, Sierra Maras, Chloe McQuestion, Jason Messing, Nathan Miller, Brian Minton, Elizabeth Mitchell, Muhammad Mojawalla, Anthony Monda, Angelina Morales, Tyler Myszka, Dominic Nappo, Edward Payan, Collin Payne, Steven Pufpaff, Samantha Pusatier, Katherine Riederer, Kate Riniolo, Kelsey Roach, Alyssa Ruminski, Laurel Salvaggio, Joselle-Yvette Scheffler, Maria Schnettler, Mark Seibert, Madison Senger, Megan Shickluna, Vanessa Shores, Emma Sickles, Katelyn Simpson, Allison Sorri, Breanna Stedman-Pate, Grace Stranahan, Dominic Tagliarino, Jacob VeRost, Olivia VeRost, Michelle Wadell, Sulamita Zherebilov
11th GRADE HONOR
Ayah Abelal, Giana Aiello, Jordan Anthony, Genna Baldassarre, Marcella Barberic, Theresa Baughman, Cassandra Brooks, Julia Buscaglia, Conner Buzby, Nicholas Capizzi, Erik Carlson, Nicole Castiglione, Virgil Castner, Raymond Cleveland, Rachel Colan, Jessica Culbert, David Cummings, Julia Diehl, Nicholas Dingey, Jacob Dollendorf, Todd Domowicz, Anthony Emmi, Louis Fabiano, Gabrielle Gagliardi, Alexis Gallup, Angelica Marie Garcia, Jacob Gleave, Chloe Groff, Kelsey Harrigan, Jessica Harvey, Alexis Hofmeyer, Richard Hoover, William Hughes, Robert Jankowiak, Bryce Jellinick, Amanda Jordan, Natalie Kaminski, Maxwell Keller, Sheila Kelly, Sydney Khreis, Madelyn Konopczynski, Julia Koprevich, Katherine Kovacs, Matthew Kowalski, Justin Kozlowski, Adam Krathaus, Jason Kubanek, Hayley Latvala, Hannah Mahon, Kelsey Mahoney, Jacob Masucci, Alyssa Maxwell, Ryan McDonald, Sean McFarland, Gracie McNamara, Heather Michki, Tyler Moskala, Tyler Muggli, Kayli Nelson, Katelyn Newbould, Juleeann Nyitrai, Claire O'Connor, Trevor Palamuso, Simon Pannullo, Arjun Patel, Connor Pignatora, Lindsay Proctor, Sean Pufpaff, Kaylee Richard, Thomas Riniolo, Sarah Saleh, Brandon Schoener, Emma Schultz, Dariene Seifert, Alexia Shivers, Samuel Sommer, Jacob Spencer, Alexis Studley, Kristine Sutton, Sarah Swagler, Nicholas Szabo, Brooke Thomas, James Thorpe, Collin Tolsma, Kaitlynn Tuohy, Olivia Turck, Mary Valle, Jamie Warren, Madelyn Webb, Dakota Wolf, Wesley Wolf, Gillian Worrall, Caitlin Young
12th GRADE HONOR
Eric Albrecht, Tori Aronica, Narmeen Asif, Cailin Atkins, Adam Bahgat, Samantha Bartolotta, Sarah Bellinger, Destiny Benjamin, Austin Blair, Emily Bognar, April Booker, Thomas Botticello, Jarod Brandon, Madison Brown, Caitlyn Bykowicz, Justine Cardone, Andrew Carlson, Yaling Chen, Jesus Cisneros Vilchis, Cameron Colan, Alexis Conway, Jenna Corrao, Matthew Crist, Colten Deuser, Michael Duda, Ian Estenoz, Bridget Federico, Ashley Giambra, Victoria Gruber, Maya Harper, Haylee Heitman, Kaitlynd Howell, Marianthi Katholos, Lovepreet Kaur, Jacob Kawecki, Brendan Kenney, Joseph Kulikowski, Julia Lawley, Sabrina Lemme, Zachary Lenz, Brianna Little, Edward Logel, Hope LoHouse, Holly Lutnick, Kiana McQuestion, Nathan Newell, James Niland, Kalista Nizialek, Michael Oldman, Miranda Patterson, Michael Pyzynski, Maria Ramsperger, Hailey Randle, Sarah Rennells, Gabrielle Robinson, Heather Robinson, Alexa Rogers, Mikayla Rosati, Maximilian Russell, Amber Schwinn, Christina Serianni, Cassidy Siebert, Rohan Alexi Smith, Lindsey Supparits, Melanie Sweeney, Matthew Tollner, Evan Valint, Taylor Vanderzell, Samantha Violino, Eric Watt, Brianna Wik, Hannah Wiktorowski, Amber Woodard, Kassidy Wozniak
GIHS 1st Quarter Merit Roll -December 2015
9th GRADE MERIT
Ava Ackerman, Anastasia Ackerson, Rebecca Agnello, Jack Anthony, Hayden Backlund, Brandon Bruner, Adam Burns, Jagger Click, Joshua Conta, Jacob Corrao, Joseph Coughlin, Collin DeMartin, Anna DiBello, Jacob Doebler, Maxwell Gojmerac, Justin Gorrell, Faith Gworek, Brianna Hays, Gregory Hurley, Seth Jackson, Alyssa Jaenecke, Sebastian Koschuk, Jacob Lunick Alicia Marlin, Clarice McCaffery, Laura McKenna, Madeline Mesmer, Jacob Neff, Nicole Paolini, Joseph Parker, Olivia Pino, Jordan Popovich, Zachary Reading, Michael Sadkowski, Amanda Samplinski, Camryn Santa Lucia, Jordan Simon, Savannah Sipe, Shay Sommer, Benjamin Starr, Dylan Stickney, Nathan Stroh, Samanatha Terrana, Nicholas Tillett, Bailey Warmus, Brienne Westfall, Kelsey Wilson, Bryce Wolf, Olivia Wright, Kenneth Yockey
10th GRADE MERIT
Tima Abdellatif, Luke Ailinger, Nicholas Anzalone, Naushairwan Asif, Steven Bachman, Jackson Besl, Claire Brandon, Breonah Brown, Alyssa Butcher, Gionna Cafarella, Dean Cataffo, Madison Ciraolo, Abigail Czerwonka, McKenna Davis, Sam DiBello, Anthony Diletti, Daniel Embridge, Daniel Fabiano, Joseph Figliola, Mariana Floro, Maricella Fusillo, Matthew Giordano, Taylor Gojmerac, Molly Hammer, Jason Held, Anna Hpperten, Zane Johnson, Nicholas Lenz, Richard Little, Ethan Lynch, Kelsey Mankowski, Anastasia Mascaro, Kayla McCauley, Eleynna Mercado-Montalvo, Spencer Mitchell, Justin Mock, Margaret Morgan, Colin Navagh, Gianna Novelli, Nathaniel Ontiveros, Kyle Podgorny, Michaela Preston, Julie Pusateri, Alexandra Robertson, Joseph Samplinski, Joshua Schaefer, Zack Schmidt, Kayla Staub, Joseph Stolfo, Kobe Swain-Bruyere, Anna Ungaro, Logan von Reyn
11th GRADE MERIT
Andrew Boryk, Joseph Boyko, Devin Brandon, Alexander Brennan, Liam Bryan, Andrea Colan, Cameron Collignon, McKenna Collignon, Alexandra Colucci, Kaylee Conta, Mallory DelSignore, Narmeen Durrani, Simon Estenoz, Louis Estrella, Madison Finn, Joseph Frailey, James Franz, Lenin Harper, Timothy Howard, Julie Klein, Lily Anna Leffler, Rachel Madigan, Harrison Mangat, Matthew Mosher, Kevin O'Leary, Jennalise Olson, David Pachla, Stephen Parisi, Madisyn Pezzino, Madison Phillips, Ryon Pietrzak, Kaila Powell, Emily Prawel, Robert Sadkowski, Jamie Saucier,Ryan Schwinn, Joseph Shumate, Nemanja Simic, Angela Smith, Caleb Stallard, Anthony Stolfo, Noah Teator, Ryan Tetreault, Randy Thomas, Marie Tomasula, Jacob Tucker, Alex Turner, Zachary Valvo, Devin Vogel, Samantha Wakefield, Aruran Wigneswaran, Cassidy Wilkinson, Joelle Woodard, Kyle York, Nicholas Yung, Abraham Zherebilov
12th GRADE MERIT
Clare Ahne, Jesse Arch, Christopher Aronica, Nicholas Bailey, Adam Beiter, Aaron Bobeck, Kyle Burns, Joseph Calabrese, Catherine Carver, Tyrone Chillis, Jeremiah Cooper, Frank Cotroneo, Patrick Cramer, Allison DeMartin, Emily Dudziak, Erin Dugan, Aprill Edwards, Jayson Endozo, Brenton Fischer, Jordyn Fisher, Nicholas Giancola, Nicholas Gioeli, Sabrina Giordano, Olivia Goc, Brittany Grant, Daniel Grinchishin, Jacob Hauer, Rebecca Hennessy, Briana Hollfelder, Nicole Hollfelder, Taylor Internicola, Samara Johnson, Julia Kavanagh, Lydia Knope, Victoria Krull, Sarah Kustich, Jacob Lindaman, Colin Loder, Yizhi Lu, James Martin, Anna Martinez, Tiffany Melendez, Sabrina Mistriner, Jake Nowak, Nathaniel Nowocien, Ryan O'Neil, Zachery O'Neill, Eric Pease, Julia Pino, Joshua Rizzo, Chelsea Robillard, Haley Rowe, Brendan Sheehan, Lindsey Spencer, Brandon Surdi, Nicholas Terlecky, Bryce Turri, Xavier Vazquez, Ciara Vedella, Maxwell VeRost, Katherine Verso, Joseph Wagner, Chancellor Warmus, Hannah Wessner, Jeremiah Wilkes, Alexis Wood, Douglas Yockey, Spencer-Jon Zukic
GIHS Hosting Catholic Football State Championship - November 2015
This Saturday, November 28, Grand Island High School will host the New York State Catholic High School Athletics Association (NYSCHSAA) Football State Championship. The St. Francis Red Raiders from Athol Springs will take on the Archbishop Stepinac Crusaders from White Plains.
Kick-off is at 1 p.m. on Gene Masters Field located at 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island. Tickets are $7.00 and will be available on site beginning at 11:30 AM.
This is the second year New York Catholic Schools have competed for a state football title and the first time the event has been held in Western New York.
4th Annual Vikings for Veterans Run/Walk - November 2015
Left: Teacher Sara Silvestri with family and dog Cal.
Right: Teacher Tim Williamson and Penny Lane
The 4th Annual Vikings for Veterans 5K/8K and 1K Dog Walk was held Saturday, November 7th at Veterans Park on Grand Island. Over 200 runners and walkers participated along with more than 50 four legged friends. Dogs were involved this year in an effort to bring awareness to the use of Service Dogs in the treatment of PTSD for returning Veterans. All proceeds of the race went to WNY Heroes, an organization that provides support services for local Veterans and their families.
The Grand Island Teachers Association was well represented with 21 members joining in the races.
GITA members Daneen Gallagher, Bob Simpson, and Dan Hager did an impeccable job organizing this year's race. Math teacher Marlene C. Winkler said "the students did a magnificent job manning the tables and covering the road course and the weather couldn't have been better. It was a great day for staff, students and canines too! Thanks to WNY Heroes for all they do for our Vets." The GITA was proud to donate $250 to this worthy cause!
Wendy's High School Heisman Program State Finalist - November 2015
On November 13th the prestigious Wendy's High School Heisman Program named Adam Dryfhout of Grand Island Senior High School as one of New York State's 20 best student-athletes recognized as State Finalists of the program. The original New York State selected pool of School Winners was 146 student-athletes. The selected pool of School Winners was narrowed down to 20 State Finalists.
These exceptional student-athletes exemplify the Heisman ideals. Each State Finalist will receive a bronze medal, a Wendy's High School Heisman State Finalist patch and a $25 Wendy's gift card. The State Finalists will then continue on to the next round of the Wendy's High School Heisman Program, where only one male and one female student will advance to be named State Winners. Adam Dryfhout was selected as 2015 State Finalists due to his success in the following areas: Volleyball, Academic Accomplishments and Community Leadership.
The Wendy's High School Heisman Program has recognized exceptional student athletes for more than two decades. The program continues to provide a platform where students are acknowledged and rewarded for their hard work and also inspired to continue their success.
Shadowing Opportunity for GIHS Sophomores - November 2015
The Grand Island High School Counselors recently spoke with 10th grade students about the opportunities available through Erie 1 BOCES Career and Technical Education. If your child is interested in shadowing a prospective program, please have them sign up in the high school guidance office by Tuesday, November 24, 2015.
This is a shadowing opportunity for interested students. Registration for the programs will take place in February/March when students are scheduled for their courses for the 2016-2017 academic year.
For more information on available programs, please visit www.e1b.org/cte or contact your child's counselor. Grand Island students can only take programs offered at the Kenton or Harkness facilities.
Vikings Defeated by Amityville - November 2015
The Grand Island Viking Boys Soccer team lost to Amityville at the NYS Class A semi-finals by a score of 3-2 on Saturday, November 15th. The goals were scored by Garrett Robinson and Joe Kulikowski. Troy Brady was named to the All State team. Andrew Carlson, Troy Brady and Joe Kulikowski made the all WNY team and Andrew Carlson received the outstanding sportsmanship award by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association. Super season guys!
Vikings Cross Country at Sectionals - November 2015
From left: Kaity Tuohy, Mari Fusillo, Isabel Dickinson, Emily Fred, Shannon Klien, Genna Baldassarre, and Jenette DiLaura
. Congratulations to the GI High School Varsity Cross Country runners for competing in the Section VI Championship on November 6th in West Seneca. Ryan Buzby finished 4th overall with a time of 17:46:02 for the 5000 meter run, which qualified him for the NYS competition on November 14th. The GI boys team finished 3rd overall out of 16 teams. Team members are Ryan Buzby, Kyle Frascstore, Tim Howard, Jerome Masters, Max Keller, Sebastian Melendez, and Ethan Lynch. The girls varsity team had a group of strong runners and finished 8th overall out of 15 teams. Team members are Kaity Tuohy, Mari Fusillo, Isabel Dickinson, Emily Fred, Shannon Klien, Genna Baldassarre, and Jenette DiLaura. Congratulations on a great meet!
Parent/Teacher Conferences - November 2015
Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Monday, November 30, 2015 in the High School from 12:00-3:00 p.m. and 4:00-7:00 p.m. Teachers will be in their rooms - a list of room assignments will be posted. Appointments are not necessary.
Vikings Apparel for Youth - November 2015
Grand Island High School's Class of 2018 is sponsoring a sale of Grand Island Viking T shirts and hooded sweatshirts in infant, toddler and youth sizes. Please see the order form for pricing, sizing and design information. Orders can be returned to Rachael Grabek in the HS Library by December 2nd. Orders will be delivered before winter break. Visit 2018 page for more information.
Vikings Win Far West Regional - November 2015
The Grand Island Viking Boys Soccer team won the Far West Regional on Friday night over Honeoye Falls-Lima in the Class A boys game at Spencerport.
They won in overtime by a score of 2-1, with a goal by Anthony Emmi. This extends their winning streak to 19 games and advances them to the state semifinals at Middletown High School on November 14th at 11:15 a.m. They will play Amityville, Long Island. Finals will be held on November 15th.
Vikings Win Section 6 Class A Championship - November 2015
Section 6 Class A Champions. JT Tomkins photo. Click for larger view.
The Grand Island Vikings boys soccer team beat Class A-2 champion Iroquois on Tuesday, November 3rd in Hamburg 4-0. They now advance to the Far West Regional game on Friday against Honeoye Falls-Lima at Spencerport High School at 7:00 p.m. The team bus leaves GI at 1:30 p.m. for the game. A spectator bus will be leaving the school at 5:00 p.m.
Prep Talk: Madisyn Pezzino is 'dangerous every time she touches the ball' - October 2015
GIHS junior Madisyn Pezzino holds the new record for most goals scored in Lady Viking Soccer history. Check out the Buffalo News story by Miguel Rodriguez.
Boys Soccer Team Wins - October 2015
UPDATE 10/30/15 - Win A-1 title, beating Hamburg 1-0. Will play Iroquois on Tuesday, November 3rd at Hamburg for the Class A title. See Buffalo News story by Nick Veronica.Update: Vikings soccer beat Sweet Home 4-0 on Friday night. GI plays Hamburg at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 29th for the championship. Field has not been announced.
The GIHS boys soccer team beat Williamsville East in the Class A quarterfinal on Wednesday, October 21st at home by a score of 3-0. Goals were scored by Troy Brady, Garret Robinson and Tom Stedman. The team is now 15-1-1 and will play against Sweet Home in the semi-finals on Friday at 7;30 p.m. at Tonawanda's field.
Lady Vikings Soccer Team - October 2015
Update: Wmsv. East beat-Grand Island 4-2 on Saturday, October 31st.Update: Lady Vikings beat Amherst 5-1 on Wednesday night at Depew. They will play Williamsville East in the final on Saturday, October 31st. Will. East defeated GI in last year's championship game 2-1.
Update: Lady Vikings beat Hamburg 9-1 on Thursday. Will play Amherst at Depew in the semifinals on Wednesday, October 28th at 7:30 p.m.
The Grand Island Lady Vikings soccer team beat Cheektowaga in the Class A pre-quarterfinal on Tuesday, October 20th at home by a score of 7-0. Junior Madisyn Pezzino broke the Grand Island High School career goals record with a hat trick, making her total 170 goals. The school record was previously held by Jessica Remmes at 168 in 2005. The other goals were scored by Marcy Berberic - 2, Giana Aiello -1 and Kelsey Harrigan -1. The #1 Lady Vikings (16-1-0)) will take on #9 Hamburg (7-7-1)) Thursday, October 22nd at Gene Masters Field at approximately 6pm.
Sports Briefs - October 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 10/8/2015"Sports Briefs - October 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 10/1/2015"
Cheryl Chamberlain, Outstanding DECA Advisor - October 2015
Cheryl Chamberlain.
The New York State Education Department and the Business Teachers Association of New York State (BTANYS) have awarded Grand Island High School business teacher Cheryl Chamberlain the "Outstanding DECA Chapter Advisor Award," in recognition of her development, impact and contribution to students in business and marketing education through DECA. Chamberlain will be presented her award at the annual BTANYS conference in Syracuse on October 16th, where she will also present a workshop on why schools should start a DECA Chapter. Grand Island has the largest DECA business club in WNY with over 150 members, including both high school and middle school, and is often seen at various community events in and around Grand Island.Sports Briefs - September 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 9/17/2015"
BW's Chicken Dinner Fundraiser - September 2015
Grand Island High School's Class of 2018 and SADD clubs are holding a BW's chicken dinner fundraiser on Thursday, September 24th before the High School open house. Dinners include half chicken, 2 sides, a roll and butter. Presale tickets cost $10, they will be $12 at the door. Dinners will be available from 2:30pm until 6:30pm or until they sell out. Presale orders may be picked up until 6:30. PRESALE ORDER OPTIONS:
1. Email rachaelgrabek@grandislandschools.org clearly stating the number of dinners you would like with a contact name and number. Also mail a check or cash to Rachael Grabek at GIHS Library, 1100 Ransom Road, Grand Island, NY 14072 with the total of your order at Presale Price. Checks can be made out to Class of 2018.
2. Send an envelope with your child to school enclosed with your name and phone number and a check or cash of the amount of your order at Presale Price. Checks can be made out to Class of 2018. Your child can hand in the envelope in the library.
High School Open House - September 2015
Grand Island High School will hold its annual Open House on Thursday, September 24, 2015 from 6:15 to 8:30 p.m. Information and schedules will be available in the main foyer. Parents follow that schedule which provides an opportunity to meet with each teacher for 10 minutes and gain an overview of the curriculum for that subject area. Sports Briefs - September 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 9/10/2015"
Gus Macker Student Intern Shines - September 2015
From left: Cassidy Siebert and Cheryl Chamberlain.
Cassidy Siebert, business intern for Cheryl Chamberlain at the High School, stepped up to the task of coordinating over 60 volunteers for the Gus Macker Tournament this past weekend. Over the summer, Cassidy contacted the volunteers and scheduled their times and was responsible for assigning them all to take score on the 23 courts throughout the two days of the tournament. "Cassidy took on a monumental task, as I broke my ankle two weeks ago and could not walk the courts," Chamberlain noted. The internship program at the high school assists students in exploring a career they might want to pursue in the future. Chamberlain added that "the experience Cassidy had the opportunity to be involved in at the Macker tournament was definitely one she will be able to refer to in all of her career areas."
GIHS Hosts Accelerating Physics Workshop - August 2015
Grand Island High School was proud to host an afternoon Accelerating Physics workshop session for high school physics teachers from across the state in association with Buffalo State College and the NYS Master Teacher Program. The afternoon started with a tour of the new technology wing at Grand Island High School led by Grand Island technology teachers Karl Koppman and Eric Cohoon. Participants then engaged in production and assembly of several "make and take" devices for use in the classroom including compressed air rocket launchers and "mini" trebuchets. A demonstration of a full scale trebuchet and several different air rocket designs were conducted on the front lawn of the high school.
The three day workshop, "accelerating physics" is part of the NYS Master Teacher Program which has a goal of designing and implementing high quality professional development that engages participants in activities specific to the content area they teach in their classrooms. The 25 participants will be returning to schools across the state with new teaching materials, lessons and instructional approaches to be put to use this fall.
GIHS 2015 Summer Graduation - August 2015
From left: Destanee Cope, Abigail Chambers, Jacob Foote, Mark Montes & Josh Tavano.
The Grand Island High School 2015 Summer Graduation ceremony was held on Monday, August 17th at 11:00 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Graduates were Destanee Cope, Abigail Chambers, Jacob Foote, Mark Montes & Josh Tavano.
Summer Internship Program at GIHS - August 2015
This summer, ten GIHS juniors and soon to be seniors had the opportunity to participate in summer internships as part of the summer school program at the high school. Cheryl Chamberlain, business teacher, introduced summer internships to students to aid in their career choices and students learned much at their placement's. Representatives from Cannon Design, Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, Campus Construction, Erie County Family Courts, and Sweet Beginnings Bakery were on board to serve as mentors and the students also attended classroom instruction. "The best part about a summer internship is that we get to be at the site during the day, when we would otherwise be in school," said Sydney Khreis who was placed at Niagara Falls Memorial Hospital. Intern Kyle Frascatore gave up going away on a vacation with family so he could learn more about the architecture field at Cannon Design. Students learn by observing and really get a sense of ownership of their career choice through internships. Grand Island is proud to offer students internships year round as part of their Career Exploration and Internship Program. For more information on becoming a mentor site or how your child can get involved in a high school career-based internship contact Chamberlain at cherylchamberlain@grandislandschools.org.
GI wins KeyBank Chalk Walk Again - August 2015
K & D Action Photo - click for larger view.
From left: Alexis Hy, Lovepreet Kaur and Kelsey Mahoney.
On Saturday, August 8th, at the Lewiston Art Festival, the team representing Grand Island High School took First Place honors at the 31st Annual KeyBank Chalk Walk Competition. Using a quarter per vote, people attending the festival could cast their vote for their favorite chalk drawing. GIHS was the recipient of the People's Choice trophy and ribbon this year as well. Along with the trophies and ribbons, VicTree Coins and Collectibles gave each member of the winning team a 2015 American Eagle .999 fine silver dollar! A fabulous gift! The team consisting of Lovepreet Kaur, Alexis Hy, and Kelsey Mahoney completed the beautiful and very detailed chalk rendering within the four hours allotted for the contest even though they got a bit of a late start due to traffic issues on the bridge. By the end of the competition they were covered in chalk, their fingers were raw, and they were exhausted.The team has provided an artist statement that explains the concept of their composition:
The Arts have been an essential part of our lives for thousands of years. People have been creating art to communicate ideas and concepts, for pleasure, to teach and inform, for entertainment, and as a form of expression. Our artistic coin, inspired by Art Nouveau artist, Alphonse Mucha, features an elegant maiden who magnificently represents the beauty found in creating art. Art words flow within the cascading folds of the dress as she stands ready to create with brushes and palette in her hands. She is flanked on both sides with the Albright Knox Gallery and Niagara Falls. In keeping with the Art Nouveau style, the ribbon lettering containing our message and the decorative design are authentic characteristics of that art period. We use our knowledge of values to produce depth which helps to create the illusion that the coin is in relief and laying on the street. The natural beauty and elegant flow of Niagara Falls and the flawless structure of the Albright Knox Gallery which houses its many famous art works have brought thousands to this area every year, helping to build our local economy. The many exhibits, festivals and art related events hold specific cultural, political, and economical values. The Arts hold a significant importance in our day-to-day life. Invest in the Arts. Arts are Key. And, you must Listen to Your Art.
The team wishes to thank all those that came out to support them. It was greatly appreciated!
31st Annual KeyBank Chalk Walk Competition - August 2015
From left: Lex Hy, Kelsey Mahoney & Lovepreet Kaur.
This Saturday, August 8th, three of Grand Island High School's artistic and talented students will be heading to the 31st Annual KeyBank Chalk Walk Competition at the Lewiston Art Festival. This year's theme is: Invest in the Arts...Design a Coin! The challenge is to create a coin within the 9' diameter circle. The style should be trompe-l'oeil showing the image on the coin in relief. Lovepreet Kaur will be returning this year for a third time alongside newcomers, Alexis Hy (last year's alternate) and Kelsey Mahoney. The team has practiced during the summer and they are ready and anxious for the competition. Come out and support your local artists and partake in a fabulous festival. Bring your quarters to cast a vote for Grand Island High School as People's Choice. See you there.
Cross Country Car Wash - July 2015
The GIHS Cross Country team will wash your car at Adrian's Custard and Beef, 2335 Grand Island Blvd., Thursday, July 16th from noon - 4pm. See flyer.
2015 Roberta Frisoni Venture Yearbook Scholarship Winners - June 2015
From left: Nancy Dahlquist, Colton Czajka, Michaela McMahon, Kelsey Percival & Margaret Rustowicz.
Mr. Christopher Simpson, Venture Yearbook Advisor, is proud to announce the following students have applied for and been awarded the 2015 Roberta Frisoni Venture Yearbook Scholarship: Colton Czajka, Nancy Dahlquist, Margaret Rustowicz, Kelsey Percival, and Michaela McMahon. The five students will share $2100 made possible by the yearbook staff's fundraising efforts this year. Both staff and editors sold holiday chocolate as well as chocolate bars to help aid in the effort. Since the 2005 school year, Mr. Simpson's Venture Yearbook club has sent editors off to college with almost $18,000 in scholarship money.The staff also generously aided two Grand Island families with gift cards to the Boulevard Mall totaling $1500 as well as purchasing gifts and gift cards for two area families through the 12 Days of Christmas program on the island. In the past the club has donated to such organizations as Make-A-Wish, MDA, the Lupus Foundation, and Mended Little Hearts, as well as providing for Grand Island Central School District families.
Class of 2015 Graduation News - June 2015
The Grand Island High School class of 2015 graduation ceremony is at Kleinhans Music Hall on Sunday, June 28th at 10:00 a.m. A mandatory rehearsal for seniors will be held on Monday, June 22nd at the high school at 8:00 a.m.
Jacob Matwijkow, BOCES' Student of the Month - June 2015
Jacob Matwijkow
The Kenton Career & Technical Center has selected Jacob Matwijkow, a senior from Grand Island High School, as Erie 1 BOCES' featured student of the month. Jacob is enrolled in the Welding program under the instruction of Frank Rosiek. According to Rosiek, "Jake is a mature, conscientious, responsible individual...a great student who deserves recognition for his outstanding effort.""I came to the Kenton Center because I wanted to experience something different that was outside of my comfort zone; something that would challenge me and help prepare me for a career," said Jacob. "The Welding program has given me the opportunity to experience and face new and exciting challenges." Jacob is an Eagle Scout with Troop 510. For his Eagle Scout project, he helped restore/rebuild a fence for the Friends of the Night organization. He received the Student of the Year award at Grand Island High School, one of only 12 students selected to receive that award. Jake also serves as the assistant captain of the Grand Island Rugby Club.
As part of public education, Erie 1 BOCES offers a variety of career and technical programs during the normal school day to high school students in Erie County. High school students interested in learning more about how they can participate in various programs such as welding, web and gaming technologies, nursing or aviation technology, should visit www.e1b.org/cte or speak with their high school counselor.
Alley Cutting, NFL Pitcher of the Year - June 2015
Alley Cutting
Grand Island Senior Alley Cutting has been named the 2015 NFL Pitcher of the Year. This making her a two time recipient of the honor. Alley has played Varsity Grand Island Softball for five years. In her career she has been selected to the NFL All Star first team, all five, as a pitcher and a hitter. The 2015 season proved to be her best, helping to earn a NFL Championship banner to hang in the gym as well as helping take the team further than they have ever been in school history in Sectionals. Alley is now off to Kennesaw State University in Georgia where she will continue her carrier as a softball player, and earn a degree in animal science.
BEEP Scholarships Awarded to GIHS Seniors - June 2015
From left: Khristian Kline, Cheryl Chamberlain & Katherine Fonte.
The Business Education Employability Portfolio (BEEP) class, taught by Cheryl Chamberlain at Grand Island High School, gives students the opportunity to showcase and relate their high school academic work to their career and college future. Outstanding examples are chosen each year to attend a competition and interview for a scholarship opportunity. This year seniors Katherine Fonte and Khristian Kline were both awarded scholarships for their work defending their portfolios. For more information on this SUNY college credit course offered at GIHS, contact Chamberlain at 773-8820.
Jacob Neumann Receives Scholarship - June 2015
Grand Island High School senior Jacob Neumann, is the recipient of the 2015 Dena Goldstein Memorial Scholarship awarded by the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Western New York (SHAWNY). He was recently recognized at the SHAWNY recognition dinner at Salvatore's for his perseverance, having overcome both physical and learning challenges as a candidate for a New York State Regents diploma with advanced designation and a New York State Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential this June. Jacob has participated in the Cybersecurity and Networking program offered at Erie 1 BOCES Harkness Career and Technical Center for two years and was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society in March in recognition of his achievements and character. He plans to study information technology at Erie Community College in the fall. While maintaining a high academic average and a challenging course load, Jacob has managed a part-time job and volunteer work in the community.
HS/MS Travel Back to Kindergarten! - June 2015
Internship and DECA High School Students and DECA Middle School Students
The yearly tradition of helping the next generation of students continued at Sidway's Kindergarten Orientation last week. High School and Middle School DECA students were happy to help teachers introduce the incoming class to the world of learning. Sidway's faculty is always grateful for this assistance and praised the students for their professionalism and kindness.
AAA School Summer Driver Education Class - May 2015
A AAA School Driver Education Class is being offered at Grand Island High School this Summer. The class and drives will be Monday thru Friday, drives are 9:15-10:45 a.m. and classes are 7:45-9:15 a.m. Class begins on June 29th and ends July 21st. The fee is $450 and registration forms are due by Friday, June 12th. See flyer. Call 773-8820 to register.Sports Briefs - May 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 5/14/2015"GIHS 3rd Quarter High Honor Roll - May 2015
9th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Tyler Bernatovicz, Ryan Buzby, Jenette DiLaura, Jordan Eckrote, John Griffin, Alicia Haak, Joshua Hannibal, Marissa Hovey, Anam Hussain, Elizabeth Ishmael, Cross Kalp, Elisabeth Krstevski, Hallie Mingoia, Brian Minton, Muhammad Mojawalla, Taylor Raine, Kate Riniolo, Joshua Schaefer, Megan Stanley, Jack Steinagel, Andrew Thompson, John VanerMey, Sara Wolcott
10th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Giana Aiello, Kristen Atkinson, Julia Buscaglia, Conner Buzby, Sophia Castillo, Todd Domowicz, Samuel Eichel, Adam Frosolone, Gabrielle Gagliardi, Alexis Hofmeyer, Olivia Johnson, Amanda Jordan, Natalie Kaminski, Maxwell Keller, Matthew Kowalski, Genavieve Koyn, Justin Kozlowski, Jason Kubanek, Lauren LoTempio, Ryan McDonald, Catherine Merletti, Owen Morrish, Kassie Moss, Kayli Nelson, Claire O’Connor, Jennalise Olson, Lindsay Proctor, Garrett Robinson, Lucas Robinson, Alexa Rogers, MaryElisabeth Rustowicz, Jamie Saucier, Emma Schultz, Jessica Surace, Kristine Sutton, Collin Tolsma, Kaitlynn Tuohy, Marianthi Vasiliadis, Cameron Watt, Madelyn Webb, Caitlin Young
11th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Natalie Braun, Andrew Carlson, Alexis Conway, Adam Dryfhout, Hilal Eyimaya, Benjamin Freedman, Ashley Giambra, Olivia Goc, Kaitlin Hoy, An-Chi Hsin, Julia Lawley, Holly Lutnick, Sammantha Reynolds, Mikayla Rosati, Emelie-jo Scheffler, Amber Schwinn, Cassidy Siebert, Lindsey Supparits, Melanie Sweeney, Brian Wynne
12th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Jessica Ackendorf, Ryan Allen, Hannah Bastian, Nicholas Bonora, Alexa Calandra, Alessia Cantoni, Rochelle Cataffo, Kayla Conway, Colton Czajka, Nancy Dahlquist, Katherine Diefenbach, Julia Drozdowsky, Eric Dudley, Taylor Latvala, Michaela McMahon, Alexandra Miller, Kelsey Percival, Miranda Phillips, Michael Podgorny, Margaret Rustowicz, Melissa Ullrich, James Wilson, Bethany Wynne
GIHS 3rd Quarter Honor Roll - May 2015
9th GRADE HONOR
Luke Ailinger, Tori Appoloney, Evan Bender, Victoria Botticello, Maddison Bower, Rosemarie Boyko, Claire Brandon, Victoria Busch, Matthew Carlson, Emily Cordero, Aleece Cruz, Gabriel D’Addario, Julianna DeSimone, Isabel Dickinson, Alexander Dodge, Alana Enright, Jessica Faso, Abigail Fay, Grace Federico, Emily Fred, Maricella Fusillo, Samantha Garcia, Philip Gentz, Mark Giancola, Jessica Gonda, James Grinchishin, Madelyn Heyden, Jennifer Hinaman, Nicole Hoy, Jerry Huang, Conner Hutton, Syrae Johnson, Ryan Kernin, Joseph Killian, Shannon Klein, Anthony Leone, Laura Link, Matthew Logel, Alyssa Luzak, Chloe McQuestion, Arthur Meaney, Nathan Miller, Tyler Myszka, Dominic Nappo, Nicholas Nowocien, Natalie O’Brien, Edward Payan, Samantha Pusatier, Katherine Riederer, Kelsye Roach, Alyssa Ruminski, Laurel Salvaggio, Zack Schmidt, Maria Schnettler, Vanessa Shores, Katelyn Simpson, Allison Sorri, Breanna Stedman-Pate, Stephen Sweeney, Jenna Tavano, Gracie Tompkins, Luke Traina, Olivia VeRost, Theresa West
10th GRADE HONOR
Jordan Anthony, Liam Atkins, Marcella Barberic, Theresa Baughman, Joseph Boyko, Devin Brandon, Erik Carlson, Nicole Castiglione, Andrea Colan, Rachel Colan, McKenna Collignon, Joseph Cooper, Jessica Culbert, Julia Diehl, Nicholas Dingey, Jacob Dollendorf, Cole Ellsworth, Anthony Emmi, Louis Fabiano, Colin Fish, Joseph Frailey, James Franz, Angelica Garcia, Jacob Gleave, Kelsey Harrigan, Jessica Harvey, Marilyn Hess, Richard Hoover, Timothy Howard, William Hughes, Robert Jankowiak, Brennen Joslyn, Sheila Kelly, Sydney Khreis, Madelyn Konopczynski, Julia Koprevich, Katherine Kovacs, Adam Krathaus, Hayley Latvala, Hannah Mahon, Kelsey Mahoney, Julianna Major, Jacob Masucci, Alyssa Maxwell, Gracie McNamara, Tyler Moskala, Tyler Muggli, Katelyn Newbould, David Pachla, Simon Pannullo, Ashley Parmellee, Connor Pignatora, Emily Prawal, Kaylee Richard, Thomas Riniolo, William Scalzo, Kelly Schlifke, Dariene Seifert, Jacob Spencer, Alexis Studley, Sarah Swagler, Lauryn Swanson, Nicholas Szabo, Ryan Tetreault, Brooke Thomas, Olivia Turck, Jenna VeRost, Devin Vogel, Cassidy Wilkinson, Dakota Wolf, Wesley Wolf, Gillian Worrall
11th GRADE HONOR
Eric Albrecht, Tori Aronica, Cailin Atkins, Emily Augugliaro, Adam Bahgat, Destiny Benjamin, Adam Bevilacqua, Austin Blair, Aaron Bobeck, April Booker, Thomas Botticello, Jarod Brandon, Zachary Breeden, Madison Brown, Justine Cardone, Taylor Cecere, Jesus Cisneros Vilchis, Cameron Colan, Frank Cotroneo, Colten Deuser, Jayson Endozo, Cydney Fairbairn, Bridget Federico, Marissa Freedman, Sabrina Giordano, Madison Green, Maya Harper, Kali Hausrath, Haylee Heitman, Lovepreet Kaur, Sydney Keane, Michaela Kozek, Joseph Kulikowski, Yuka Kumazawa, Brianna Little, Edward Logel, Anna Martinez, Haley Melisz, Sabrina Mistriner, Nathan Newell, James Niland, Michael Pyzynski, Maria Ramsperger, Hailey Randle, Sarah Rennells, Joshua Rizzo, Gabrielle Robinson, Heather Robinson, Maximiliam Russell, Christina Serianni, Jihyun Sim, Cameron Smith, Robert Stolfo, Brandon Surdi, Matthew Tollner, Taylor Vanderzell, Samantha Violino, Eric Watt, Alex Whetham, Brianna Wik, Jeremiah Wilkes
12th GRADE HONOR
Alwareed Abdellatif, Joshua Barrett, Samantha Bartolotta, Carly Bernatovicz, Bradley Boreali, Brianna Brandon, Natalia Christiano, Sara Cichon, Nathan Ciffa, Caitlin Conlon, Julia Culbert, Alexandra Cutting, Anna DeMartin, Isabel Dengos, Karli Deuser, Rajveer Dhaliwall, Joseph Egloff, Jared Eichel, Joyce Endozo, Justin Figler, Moran Finn, Halle FitzGerald, Katherine Fonte, Emily Fuoco, Alexander Garey, Rebekah Gaydosh, Leah Geis, Kathryn Gentz, Marissa Gress, Balraj Grewal, Carly Hand, Connor Harrigan, Christian Hilts, Kimberly Huffnagle, Andrew Husted, Grey Johnson, Leah Killian, Marah Killian, Khristian Kline, Kurt Laschinger, Nathan Marino, Alanna Mergel, Nolan Miles, Thomas Morgan, Robert Nappo, Robin Neary, Alyssa Pelosi, Mary Kate Petz, Mitchell Racz, Jenna Reinard, Andrew Riederer, Eric Riederer, Lydia Senger, Benjamin Shaw, Javier Solis, Hiral Suthar, Emily Szabo, Laura Taylor, Rebecca Wall, Steven White, Scarlett Whitman, Corey Wilkinson, Emily Wolcott, Katherine Wolski, Jordan Yamonaco, Jessica Zoldowski, Taylor Zoldowski
GIHS 3rd Quarter Merit Roll - May 2015
9th GRADE MERIT
Sama Abdelal, Bayan Abdellatif, Nicholas Anzalone, Jackson Besl, Cameron Blair, Eva Bobeck, Kayla Booker, Alyssa Butcher, Sarah Bykowicz, Derek Callen, Thomas Cecere, Lauren Chadwick, Abigail Czerwonka, Dylan DeGlopper, Eliza Dudziak, Michael Ellegate, Daniel Fabiano, Joseph Figliola, Ryan Frost, John Glose, Taylor Gojmerac, Kaitlyn Grybel, Molly Hammer, Charles Hegarty, Sydney Hoerner, Joshua Hoy, JaQuan Johnson, Nicholas Kam, Tess Lariviere, Nicholas Lenz, Kelsey Mankowski, Sierra Maras, Justin Mock, Angelina Morales, Amanda Moran, Michaela Preston, Joseph Samplinski, Megan Shickluna, Emma Sickles, Carly Sozio, Joseph Stolfo, Dominic Tagliarino, Anna Ungaro, Jacob VeRost, Sulamita Zherebilov
10th GRADE MERIT
Ayah Abdelal, Genna Baldassarre, Andrew Boryk, Liam Bryan, Roman Cacciatore, Nicholas Capizzi, Lauryn Clark, Alexandra Colucci, Juliana Cousins, Mallory DelSignore, Simon Estenoz, Louis Estrella, Madison Finn, Alexis Gallup, Chloe Groff, Lenin Harper, Bryce Jellinick, Alexander Jennings, George Katholos, Rachel Madigan, Alexa Mallare, Faith Martell, Nathaniel Massaro, Sean McFarland, Heather Michki, Juleeann Nyitrai, Julianna Passarelli, Arjun Patel, Madisyn Pezzino, Kaila Powell, Sean Pufpaff, Brandon Schoener, Cassandra Shores, Samuel Sommer, Jack Stieringer, Noah Teator, Randy Thomas, James Thorpe, Jacob Tucker, Zachary Valvo, Madison VeRost, Aruran Wigneswaran, Jeremiah Wilkes, Nicholas Yung
11th GRADE MERIT
Benjamin Abbott, Jill Anderson, Jesse Arch, Narmeen Asif, Sarah Bellinger, Emily Bognar, Caitlyn Bykowicz, Joseph Calabrese, Drew Callen, Yaling Chen, Patrick Cramer, Sari Dickinson, Danielle Duck, Michael Duda, Nicholas Gioeli, Brittany Grant, Daniel Grinchishin, Victoria Gruber, Taj Harris, Briana Hollfelder, Nicole Hollfelder, Taylor Internicola, Taylor Johnson, Jacob Kawecki, Lydia Knope, Sarah Kustich, Sabrina Lemme, Liana Lombardo, Michael Mankowski, Kiana McQuestion, Ernest Minichello, Kalista Nizialek, Jake Nowak, Zachery O’Neill, Michael Oldman, Anthony Ormsby, Chelsea Robillard, Brendan Sheehan, Rohan Smith, Lindsey Spencer, Thomas Stedman, Xavier Vazquez, Ciara Vedella, Maxwell VeRost, Katherine Verso, Hannah Wiktorowski, Kassidy Wozniak, Douglas Yockey, Spencer-Jon Zukic
12th GRADE MERIT
Michelle Adams, Michaela Bailes, Brian Brennan, Nicholas Brink, Ryan Britt, Sierra Brooks, Michael Brown, Giuseppe Campanella, Colin Carey, Robert Carroll, Andrew Colautto, Sara Colon, Lillian Cultrara, Shannon Driess, Daniel Edel, Adam El Houssieny, Thomas Euscher, Joseph Farrell, Ashley Franz, Andrew Fred, Patrick Gallagher, Graciana Giambra, Mikayla Gillis, Chelsey Hartman, Sabrina Hausrath, Emily Hjalmarson, Jacqueline Kehoe, Jack Kennedy, Kelsey Ketterer, Alexa Lombardo, Thomas Major, Holly Mandura, Ryan Marlin, Jacob Matwijkow, Colton McGraw, Matthew McNaughton, Anthony Mosher, Jacob Neumann, Timothy Newbould, Meaghan O’Leary, Colin Osborn, Emilie Phinney, Jordan Piershalski, Drew Pitts, Brendan Pratt, Jordan Russo, Savannah Santillo, McKenzie Schaefer, George Smith, Heena Suthar, Meghan Thomas, Branden Tripi, Mark Valle, Brian Verso, Jessica Wing, Anthony Yanes, Brenna Young, Alexander Zimmermann
Commitment to Education Award Winner - May 2015
From left Khristian Kline, Maggie Rustowicz, Fahim Mojawalla, MaryElisabeth Rustowicz and Tom Stedman.
On Wednesday, May 6th, Fahim Mojawalla of Island Ship Center was honored as a "Commitment to Education" Award Winner from the Niagara Frontier Industry Education. The group honors exceptional Business/Education partnerships.Sports Briefs - May 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 5/7/2015"
Bryce Jellinick Pitches No-Hitter - May 2015
From left mom Lori, Bryce and dad Chris Jellinick.
In just his 3rd varsity start, sophomore Bryce Jellinick threw a no-hitter on Wednesday, April 29th against the Nigara Wheatfield Falcons. The lefty pitcher threw 71 pitches over 7 innings, to help his team to a 7-0 win at Grand Island High School. Bryce threw 49 strikes vs. 22 balls, for a strike % of 69.0 Over 21 outs, Jellinick scattered 5 strike-outs and 2 walks, while holding the visiting Falcons to just 5 base runners. The Grand Island Vikings are coached by Dean Santorio and currently are 5-4 on the 2015 season.
GI DECA Travels to Orlando Conference - May 2015
Grand Island Deca finalists with advisor Cheryl Chamberlain.
Khristian Kline, center, receives Otis Spunkmeyer scholarship.
Nine GIHS students qualified to compete at the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida this past week and brought back a tremendous experience. DECA is an international competitive business club and boasts over 211,000 members worldwide. All 50 states and many different countries also came to compete with a total of 17,000 students and advisors in attendance. The sunshine state did not disappoint the students who were prepared with communications, leadership and presentation skills. Juniors were Natalie Braun, Maria Ramsperger, and Eric Albrecht while senior representation came from Carly Hand, Natalia Christiano, Alyssa Pelosi, Laura Taylor, Khristian Kline and returning for a second ICDC experience, Ashley Franz. Our GI contingent worked hard as the competition was fierce. Khristian Kline made it on the big stage in the Orlando County Convention Center when he was recognized for winning one of ten national scholarships sponsored by Otis Spunkmeyer. Advisor Cheryl Chamberlain would like to thank the Grand Island School District for their continued commitment to the DECA program which prepares emerging leaders in business, management and entrepreneurship. In addition, special thanks goes to the companies and individuals who donated funding to the students so they could benefit from this exciting opportunity!Sports Briefs - April 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 4/30/2015"Sports Briefs - April 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 4/23/2015"
GIHS Alumni Donate Artwork - April 2015
From left: Bill Whitford and Neil Tetkowski.
The following is from an article on the GI High School website.It began with the reunion of two former classmates. Years after graduating from Grand Island High School, Bill Whitford, Class of 1972, and Neil Tetkowski, class of 1973 were honored with the Grand Island High School Distinguished Alumni Award in 2005. Whitford recognized for his significant research in biotechnology and Tetkowski for his world renowned artwork. Choosing differing paths in life, Whitford and Tetkowski rekindled their friendship through their common love for the Island and fond memories of their formative years.
Recently, while traveling for business, Whitford dropped by for a visit with Tetkowski and was moved by his latest work - The Niagara Gorge Project, a series of artwork created last summer on the rocks at the base of the gorge. While conferring about their experiences growing up on the Island, together they decided to donate a piece from the series to Grand Island High School in honor of life, their alma mater and the memories all Grand Island students share living in such a unique region. See full article.
Meaghan O'Leary Signs with Daemen College - April 2015
Back Row: Grandmother Donna O'Leary and brother Kevin.
Front Row: Mom Debby O'Leary, Meaghan and dad Dennis.
GIHS senior Meaghan O'Leary signed a letter of intent on Tuesday, March 31st, to play soccer at Daemen College in Buffalo. Meaghan is a four-year varsity goalie for the Vikings and was named All NFL team two times, had 26 shut outs and a record of 52-14-11.
Justin Figler Signs with Daemen College - April 2015
From left: Dad Rom Figler, Justin and mom Karen
GIHS senior Justin Figler signed a letter of intent on Tuesday, March 31st, to play soccer at Daemen College in Buffalo. Justin is a goalie for the Vikings and was named All NFL team two times, and to the All WNY Large School team.
Joe Farrell Signs with Canisius College - April 2015
Back Row: Empire Team coach Tony Schiappa and Grand Island Soccer Coach Frank Butcher.
Front Row: Dad Michael, Joe Farrell, mom Marian and Grandmother Joan Marinaro.
GIHS senior Joe Farrell signed a letter of intent on Monday, March 30th, to play soccer at Division I Canisius College in Buffalo. He was given athletic and academic scholarships, and will be majoring in Bio-Chemistry and Pre-Med. Joe was named Soccer First Team Large School and First Team NFL for the Fall 2014 season.
Kline Receives DECA Scholarship - March 2015
Cole Kline and Advisor Cheryl Chamberlain
Congratulations to GIHS senior Khristian Cole Kline as the recipient of the national DECA/Otis Spunkmeyer scholarship. Khristian is the GI DECA Chapter President and will accept his scholarship on stage at the International DECA Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida in April. DECA offers scholarships to high school seniors who are highly involved with their chapter and Khristian will compete at this year's conference in the area of Business Law and Ethics Team Decision Making. Kline will attend George Washington University in the fall to major in business economics and public policy.
GIHS JV Hockey in State Championship - March 2015
Front row from left: Dominic Tagliarino, Nick Jennings.
Middle row from left:Cameron Blair, Carson Suffoletta, Cameron Collignon, Thomas Cecere, Will Hughes, Parker Morrow, Mathew Giordano, Ricky Little, Nick Phinney.
Back row from left: Manager Scott Morrow, Asst. Coach Steve Calandra, Adam Crist, Nino Calandra, Ryan McDonald, Brandon Snyder, Anthony Leone, Nathan Massaro, Colin Bellinger, Jimmy Horwitz, Head Coach Marv Pawlowski, Asst. Coach Dean Massaro.
The GI High School JV Hockey team made it all the way to the State Championship Game held on March 1, 2015. They lost the championship game to Ithaca (Large School), 3-2 in Double Overtime. Along the way, GI beat St. Francis, Port Washington and T-NT in the preliminary rounds of the State Tournament before defeating rival Lewiston-Porter in the Semi-Finals and advancing to the State Championship Game vs Ithaca. Congratulations guys!
GIHS Graduates 21 at LYNC Program - March 2015
LYNC is an eight-month leadership development program designed for youth to discover the leader within while learning about our community. Students receive a practical and in-depth understanding of leadership concepts and principles, along with self awareness, communication, teamwork, project management, problem solving, diversity and inclusion, servant leadership and leading change and transformation. The LYNC Class is taught and mentored by a team of leadership experts and Leadership Niagara graduates. Grand Island High School had 21 students graduate from the program out of 480 students. Sophomores and juniors interested in next year's program should check out the GIHS website for more information.
GIHS Intern Presents at Cannon Design - March 2015
Colton McGraw presenting at Cannon Design.
Imagine being a high school student and designing a building from start to finish! That is exactly what Grand Island High School senior Colton McGraw had the opportunity to accomplish when he enrolled in the Internship course at Grand Island High School. Colton, an accomplished musician and AP student, wants to go to college for mechanical engineering and requested an internship at Cannon Design on Grand Island. At first, Colton thought he would be the coffee and office boy, but he soon learned differently as every department at Cannon took him on to create a masterpiece, unique to his interests. As the musician in Colton thrives, he thought about a performing arts building as his creation. The end result of his project was presented to all of Colton's Cannon Design mentors, internship teacher Cheryl Chamberlain and Superintendent Teresa Lawrence. It was amazing to see what is actually involved in the design of a building from the planning, design, mechanical, structural, and even technological aspects. Colton's experience was extraordinary and the staff at Cannon were so proud of his dedication and hard work on his project. Internships are available to any high school junior or senior at Grand Island through the Career Exploration/Internship Program. For more information on a new summer school program this year, contact cherylchamberlain@grandislandschools.org.
Nine Teams in Corporate Bowl Semi-Finals/Finals - March 2015
Nine teams have advanced to the 17th Annual GISBA Corporate Bowl Semi-Final on Tuesday, March 17th. The event will take place in the Viking Theater, GIHS, 1100 Ransom Road at 6:00 p.m. See teams and schedule details.
Ten Years of Excellence for GI DECA Club at States! - March 2015
Cole Kline and Ashley Franz qualified for Nationals with advisor Cheryl Chamberlain.
Laura Taylor and Alyssa Pelosi also qualified for Nationals
2015 marks the tenth year that advisor Cheryl Chamberlain has taken her qualifying students to the NYS DECA Conference in Rochester. This year was the largest contingent of GI DECA as 54 traveled to States where over 2000 were in attendance. Students competed in business simulations and were immersed in a professional environment over their stay. Grand Island took home numerous medals and trophies for their efforts. There were many "firsts" this year for GI DECA, including the attendance of four middle school students accompanied by advisor Mary Jane Fonte. In addition, Grand Island had nine high school students qualify to attend the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida which is the most ever in GI DECA to make it to Nationals! They are Maria Ramsperger, Eric Albrecht, Natalie Braun, Carly Hand, Natalia Christiano, Cole Kline, Ashley Franz, Laura Taylor and Alyssa Pelosi. Local Grand Island business leader, Fahim Mojawalla and former GIHS DECA student Kaitlyn Czerwonka served as State judges and the students were happy to see them at the competition. DECA, an international business and marketing club, boasts over 200,000 members worldwide and seeks to prepare emerging leaders in the business field. For more information on how DECA can help your student in their career future contact Chamberlain or Fonte at 773-8820.
Grand Island Students of the Year Awards - March 2015
The PTSA and Rotary Club are presenting the Grand Island Students of the Year awards. Applications are now available. Seniors can stop by the high school main office to pick up an application. Applications are due back to Mr. Carter, high school assistant principal, by Wednesday April 1st. Approximately 12 students will be selected to receive this award. Recipients will attend an honorary ceremony on Tuesday, May 26th at 6:00 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Buffalo Launch Club and students will receive a plaque, a gift from the rotary, and dinner. The Madrigals choir from Grand Island High School will also be performing. If you have any questions, please see Mr. Carter in the high school main office.
AAA School Driver Education Class - March 2015
A AAA School Driver Education Class is being offered at Grand Island High School this Spring. The class and drives will be on Mondays and Wednesdays, drives are 2:45-4:15 p.m. and classes are 4:15-5:45 p.m. Class begins on March 23rd and ends May 27th. The fee is $450 and first registration takes place on Thursday, March 12th at 2:00 p.m. in the High School Main Office. See flyer.
GIHS JV Hockey Wins Small School Championship - March 2015
Front row, from left: Nick Jennings, Parker Morrow, Thomas Cecere, Will Hughes, Carson Suffoletta, Cameron Blair, Nick Phinney, Ricky Little, Dominic Tagliarino.
Back row, from left: Asst. Coach Steve Calandra, Asst. Coach Dean Massaro, Brandon Snyder, Jimmy Horwitz, Nino Calandra, Ryan McDonald, Cameron Collignon, Adam Crist, Anthony Leone, Nathan Massaro, Colin Bellinger, Manager Scott Morrow, Mathew Giordano, Head Coach Marv Pawlowski, Asst. Coach Noel Blair.
The Grand Island High School JV Hockey team won their 3rd consecutive, WNY Club Hockey Small School Championship on Saturday, February 21st. Grand Island defeated Lewiston-Porter 7-2 and advanced to the state championships held in Ithaca.
Lady Vikings and Boys Basketball Win in Upsets - February 2015
Girls Basketball lost to Hamburg 47-31 in the Class A-1 semifinal on Tuesday, March 3rd.Boys Basketball lost to Will. South 63-35 in the quarterfinals.
Boys basketball surprised Kenmore East on Wednesday, February 25th in the Sections VI Class A-1 pre-quarterfinal by a score of 56-45. Junior Joe Kulikowski hit four 3-pointers in the third quarter. GI will play #2 seed Williamsville South Friday, February 27th away at 7:00 p.m. in the quarterfinals.
The Grand Island Lady Vikings basketball team were seeded #7 and surprised #2 seed Hutch Tech on Thursday, February 26th by a score of 36-35, away. They will now face third seeded Hamburg in the semifinal at Clarence on Tuesday, March 3rd at 5:30 p.m.
GI In Section VI Semifinals - February 2015
GI lost to Will East in the semifinal on February 25th by a score of 5-1.Sixth seeded Grand Island upset 3rd seeded W. Seneca East in overtime on Sunday, February 22nd at the Section VI quarterfinals. Brendon Pratt scored the winning goal with 47 seconds left in the first overtime giving GI the 2-1 win. The Vikings will meet top-seeded Williamsville East at Northtown rink at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25th.
GIHS 2nd Quarter High Honor Roll - February 2015
9th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Tori Appoloney, Evan Bender, Tyler Bernatovicz, Julianna DeSimone, Jordan Eckrote, John Griffin, Alicia Haak, Jennifer Hinaman, Marissa Hovey, Anam Hussain, Cross Kalp, Carly Lawson, Hallie Mingoia, Muhammad Mojawalla, Megan Stanley, Jack Steinagel, Andrew Thompson, John VanderMey, Sara Wolcott
10th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Kristen Atkinson, Theresa Baughman, Julia Buscaglia, Conner Buzby, Sophia Castillo, Jessica Culbert, Todd Domowicz, Alexis Hofmeyer, Olivia Johnson, Amanda Jordan, Natalie Kaminski, Maxwell Keller, Sydney Khreis, Madelyn Konopczynski, Matthew Kowalski, Adam Krathaus, Lauren LoTempio, Alyssa Maxwell, Catherine Merletti, Owen Morrish, Kassie Moss, Kayli Nelson, Claire O’Connor, Jennalise Olson, Lindsay Proctor, Garrett Robinson, Lucas Robinson, Alexa Rogers, MaryElisabeth Rustowicz, Emma Schultz, Jessica Surace, Collin Tolsma, Kaitlynn Tuohy, Olivia Turck, Marianthi Vasiliadis, Madelyn Webb, Caitlin Young
11th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Natalie Braun, Adam Dryfhout, Hilal Eyimaya, Bridget Federico, Benjamin Freedman, Kaitlin Hoy, An-Chi Hsin, Lovepreet Kaur, Joseph Kulikowski, Anna Martinez, Sarah Moseley, Sammantha Reynolds, Amber Schwinn, Cassie Schickluna, Cameron Smith, Melanie Sweeney, Brian Wynne
12th GRADE HIGH HONOR
Jessica Ackendorf, Hannah Bastian, Alexa Calandra, Alessia Contoni, Rochelle Cataffo, Nancy Dahlquist, Katherine Diefenbach, Julia Drozdowsky, Eric Dudley, Katherine Fonte, Carly Hand, Khristian Kline, Taylor Latvala, Michaela McMahon, Alexandra Miller, Michael Podgomy, Kaitlyn Rudney, Margaret Rustowicz, Melissa Ullrich, James Wilson
GIHS Honor Roll - February 2015
9th GRADE HONOR
Cameron Blair, Victoria Botticello, Rosemarie Boyko, Claire Brandon, Victoria Busch, Ryan Buzby, Matthew Carlson, Emily Cordero, Abigail Czerwonka, Gabriel D’Addario, Isabel Dickinson, Jenette DiLaura, Alexander Dodge, Alana Enright, Grace Federico, Emily Fred, Maricella Fusillo, Philip Gentz, Jessica Gonda, James Greinchishin, Joshua Hannibal, Madelyn Heyden, Nicole Hoy, Jerry Huang, Elizabeth Ishmael, Joseph Killian, Elisabeth Krstevski, Anthony Leone, Laura Link, Matthew Logel, Alyssa Luzak, Chloe McQuestion, Arthur Meaney, Brian Minton, Dominic Nappo, Nicholas Nowocien, Natalie O’Brien, Edward Payan, Samantha Pusatier, Taylor Raine, Katherine Riederer, Kate Riniolo, Alyssa Ruminski, Laurel Salvaggio, Joshua Schaefer, Maria Schnettler, Megan Shickluna, Vanessa Shores, Emma Sickles, Allison Sorri, Breanna Stedman-Pate, Stephen Sweeney, Jenna Tavano, Gracie Tompkins, Luke Traina, Jacob VeRost, Olivia VeRost, Theresa West, Imani Williams
10th GRADE HONOR
Giana Aiello, Jordan Anthony, Liam Atkins, Genna Baldassarre, Marcella Barberic, Joseph Boyko, Devin Brandon, Erik Carlson, Nicole Castiglione, Andrea Colan, McKenna Collignon, Julia Diehl, Nicholas Dingey, Jacob Dollendorf, Samuel Eichel, Cole Ellsworth Anthony Emmi, Louis Fabiano, Madison Finn, Colin Fish, Joseph Frailey, Adam Frosolone, Gabrielle Gagliardi, Angelica Garcia, Kelsey Harrigan, Jessica Harvey, Marilyn Hess, Richard Hoover, William Hughes, Robert Jankowiak, Bryce Jellinick, Brennen Joslyn, Sheila Kelly, Julia Koprevich, Katherine Kovacs, Genavieve Koyn, Justin Kozlowski, Jason Kubanek, Hayley Latvala, Hannah Mahon, Kelsey Mahoney, Julianna Major, Faith Martell, Nathaniel Massaro, Jacob Masucci, Ryan McDonald , Gracie McNamara, Tyler Moskala, Tyler Muggli, Simon Pannullo, Ashley Parmelee, Madisyn Pezzino, Connor Pignatora, Kaila Powell, Sean Pufpaff, Kaylee Richard, Thomas Riniolo, Jamie Saucier, William Scalzo, Kelly Schlifke, Jacob Spencer, Alexis Studley, Kristine Sutton, Sarah Swagler, Lauryn Swanson, Brooke Thomas, Jacob Tucker, Jenna VeRost, Cameron Watt, Cassidy Wilkinson, Dakota Wolf, Wesley Wolf, Gillian Worrall
11th GRADE HONOR
Eric Albrecht, Tori Aronica, Cailin Atkins, Emily Augugliaro, Adam Bahgat, Adam Bevilacqua, Austin Blair, Aaron Bobeck, Emily Bognar, April Booker, Thomas Botticello, Zachary Breeden, Madison Brown, Drew Callen, Justin Cardone, Andrew Carlson, Taylor Cecere, Yaling Chen, Jesus Cisneros Vilchis, Cameron Colan, Alexis Conway, Colten Deuser, Marissa Freedman, Ashley Giambra, Sabrina Giordano, Madison Green, Kali Hausrath, Haylee Heitman, Briana Hollfelder, Kaitlynd Howell, Sydney Keane, Michaela Kozek, Yuka Kumazawa, Julia Lawley, Brianna Little, Holly Lutnick, Madison McNamara, Haley Melisz, Nathan Newell, James Niland, Jake Nowak, Michael Pyzynski, Maria Ramsperger, Hailey Randle, Sarah Rennells, Chelsea Robillard, Gabrielle Robinson, Heather Robinson, Emielie-jo Scheffler, Christina Serianni, Brendan Sheehan, Cassidy Siebert, Jihyun Sim, Lindsey Supparits, Brandon Surdi, Matthew Tollner, Katherine Verso, Eric Watt, Alex Whetham, Jeremiah Wilkes
12th GRADE HONOR
Ryan Allen, Joshua Barrett, Samantha Bartolotta, Carly Bernatovicz, Nicholas Bonora, Bradley Boreali, Brianna Brandon, Ryan Britt, Sierra Brooks, Robert Carroll, Natalia Christiano, Sara Cichon, Mariah Ciffa, Sara Colon, Caitlin Conlon, Kayla Conway, Julia Culbert, Lillian Cultrara, Alexandra Cutting, Colton Czajka, Kaitlyn Davidson, Anna DeMartin, Karli Deuser, Shannon Driess, Joseph Egloff, Thomas Euscher, Justin Figler, Austin Fisher, Halle FitzGerald, Andrew Fred, Emily Fuoco, Alexander Garey, Rebekah Gaydosh, Kathryn Gentz, Marissa Gress, Balraj Grewal, Christian Hilts, Kimberly Huffnagle, Andrew Husted, Grey Johnson, Jack Kennedy, Leah Killian, Marah Killian, Kurt Laschinger, Thomas Major, Colton McGraw, Alanna Mergel, Nolan Miles, Anthony Mosher, Robert Nappo, Robin Neary, Alyssa Pelosi, Kelsey Percival, Devon Perri, Miranda Phillips, Jenna Reinard, Andrew Riederer, Eric Riederer, Benjamin Shaw, Meghan Sonnenberg, Emily Szabo, Laura Taylor, Rebecca Wall, Scarlett Whitman, Corey Wilkinson, Emily Wolcott, Bethany Wynne, Jessica Zoldowski, Taylor Zoldowski
GIHS Merit Roll - February 2015
9th GRADE MERIT
Sama Abdelal, Bayan Abdellatif, Luke Ailinger, Nicholas Anzalone, Naushairwan Asif, Lahhtay Aung, Colin Bellinger, Ruby Benz, Jackson Besi, Eva Bobeck, Jason Breeden, Sarah Bykowicz, Derek Callen, Dean Cataffo, Lauren Chadwick, Dylan DeGlopper, Daniel Fabiano, Jessica Faso, Abigail Fay, Mark Giancola, John Glose, Charles Hegarty, Madeline Hjalmarson, Robert Hodan, Sydney Hoerner, Joshua Hoy, Conner Hutton, Nicholas Kam, Ryan Kernin,Shannon Klein, Angelina Koloshuk, Hannah Kurek, Nicholas Lenz, David Lesinski, Mark Love, Jason Lupp, Kelsey Mankowski, Sierra Maras, Nathan Miller, Angelina Morales, Kelsey Roach, Joseph Samplinski, Zack Schmidt, Carly Sozio, Joseph Stolfo, Dominic Tagliarino, Anna Ungaro, Michelle Wadell, Sulamita Zherebilov
10th GRADE MERIT
Roman Cacciatore, Antonio Calandra, Alexandra Colucci, Kaylee Conta, Joseph Cooper, Juliana Cousins, Mallory DelSignore, Simon Estenoz, James Franz, Jacob Gleave, Lenin Harper, Timothy Howard, Alexander Jennings, George Katholos, Natasha Keller, Reganne Kleisath, Rachel Madigan, Harrison Mangat, Sean McFarland, Heather Michki, Matthew Mosher, Katelyn Newbould, Kevin O’Leary, David Pachla, Katelyn Palamuso, Trevor Palamuso, Julianna Passarelli, Arjun Patel, Hannah Pfalzer, Madison Phillips, Emily Prawel, Matthew Racz, Robert Sadkowski, Brandon Schoener, Dariene Seifert, Cassandra Shores, Angela Smith, Brianna Smith, Samuel Sommer, Jack Stieringer, Anthony Stolfo, Nicholas Szabo, Joseph Tamsen, Noah Teator, Ryan Tetreault, Randy Thomas, James Thorpe, Marie Tomasula, Zachary Valvo, Madison VeRost, Aruran Wigneswaran, Nicholas Yung
11th GRADE MERIT
Jill Anderson, Jesse Arch, Narmeen Asif, Hayley Becker, Adam Beiter, Sarah Bellinger, Destiny Benjamin, Troy Brady, Jarod Brandon, Dominique Capizzi, Charles Cetola, Jeremiah Cooper, Frank Cotroneo, Patrick Cramer, Sari Dickinson, Michael Duda, Jayson Endozo, Cydney Fairbairn, Brenton Fischer, Jordyn Fisher, Olivia Goc, Brittany Grant, Benjamin Graziano, Daniel Grinchishin, Victoria Gruber, Maya Harper, Taj Harris, Celeste Haynie, Nicole Hollfelder, Shannon Holt, Jacob Kawecki, Sarah Kustich, Sabrina Lemme, Edward Logel, Loveleen Mangat, Michael Mankowski, James Martin, Kiana McQuestion, Kalista Nizialek, Emily Nobumoto, Zachery O’Neill, Michael Oldman, Anthony Ormsby, Eric Pease, Joshua Rizzo, Maximillian Russell, Jake Schmidt, Thomas Stedman, Robert Stolfo, Evan Valint, Ciara Vedella, Taya Wiesmore, Hannah Wiktorowski, Amber Woodard, Spencer-Jon Zukic
12th GRADE MERIT
Eric Ackerman, Tyler Benderson, Vincent Bruno, Giuseppe Campanella, Nathan Ciffa, Andrew Colautto, Marcus Cook, Isabel Dengos, Rajveer Dhaliwall, Jared Eichel, Joyce Endozo, Morgan Finn, Patrick Gallagher, Leah Geis, Maxwell Grenda, Connor Harrigan, Michael Hughes, Samara Lanthier, Alexa Lombardo, Nathan Marino, Mark McKenna, Matthew McNaughton, Thomas Morgan, Jenna Neff, Jacob Neumann, Timothy Newbould, Meaghan O’Leary, Nicholas Ortiz, Colin Osborn, Jessica Patterson, Emilie Phinney, Anne Pilie, Brendan Pratt, Mitchell Racz, Lauren Rogoza, Raymond Rott, Lydia Senger, Pushpinder Singh, Javier Solis, Kyle Staub, Jordan VeRost, Brian Verso, Steven White, Bennett Wright, Jordan Yamonaco, Brenna Young, Alexander Zimmermann
Keeping It Professional! GIHS Job Search 2015 - February 2015
From left: High school students Carly Bernatovicz, Tiffany Melendez, Andrew Fred and Max Grenda.
Nona Harris from Wegman's is greeted by High School student Jesus Cisneros.
A new venue at Four Points Sheraton, overlooking Grand Island, was the setting for this year's Job Search Seminar. The annual event is presented by the Business Department at Grand Island High School and over 80 high school students took part. The High School PTSA and GISBA (The Grand Island School and Business Alliance) were also promoters of this incredibly useful and authentic experience. Resumes in hand, students interviewed with local business and school officials for experience and jobs! Lisa Dollendorf, of Roy's Plumbing and Heating, exclaimed that she is so very honored to be a part of this program and after five years is more impressed every year by the pool of candidates! Students are instructed in their high school business classes and DECA events on how to prepare for an interview and then put their best foot forward at Job Search. Breakout sessions provided by Illia Beecher, Mimi Cuddy-Mierzwa and Jon Snider reinforced skills of the interview process. "This is the program students talk about years after graduation as something they remember from high school that they could put to use immediately and the program will continue to grow with such excellent community support," explained Cheryl Chamberlain, coordinator of the event. For more information on the Job Search and Shadow Day programs at Grand Island High School, email cherylchamberlain@grandislandschools.org.
Sports Briefs - February 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 2/5/2015"
"Shrek the Musical" at Grand Viking Theater - January 2015
Grand Island Music Department will present "Shrek, the Musical" Thursday February 5, Friday, February 6,and Saturday, February 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school aud. Tickets are $10.00 and can be purchased at the door. Stars of the cast include Jared Eichel as Shrek, Jill Anderson as Fiona, Ryan Allen as Lord Farquaad, Sam Sommer as Donkey, and Melanie Sweeney as Dragon.
Sports Briefs - January 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 1/29/2015"Sports Briefs - January 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 1/22/2015"
Grand Island High School STEAM Ambassadors - January 2015
From left: Carl Koppmann, technology teacher; Adam Bahgat, 11th grade student; Matt Wellence, 12th grade student; and Michael Carter, assistant principal.
Click photo for larger view.
Grand Island High School's Engineering Tech Club showcased their handcrafted paddle board to 20 school districts at a collaborative STEAM meeting. STEAM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. The meeting that occurred on January 15 was co-hosted by WNY STEM Hub and Erie 1 BOCES. Grand Island's paddle board project best demonstrated STEAM learning because a 3-D computer design was then constructed using precise measurements and advanced manmade materials such as epoxy composites, aerospace cloths like fiberglass and extruded polystyrene. Two student representatives, Adam Bahgat and Matt Wellence, shared with the educators their learning process by utilizing a progressive slide show of photos. The capstone to their presentation included images of an in-water test of their 9'8" paddle-board at Beaver Island State Park. The club looks forward to completing a fleet of water crafts, including two more kayaks, to further connect Grand Island students to their water-based community. The club is funded by donations and from the sale of their handmade cutting boards and laser engraved glasses.
Third Place Finish at AutoTech Competition - January 2015
From left: Talha Mojawalla, Instructor Gary Willis & Kyle Staub.
Grand Island High School seniors and Ken-Ton students Talha Mojawalla and Kyle Staub, placed 3rd at the "Ron Smith Memorial AutoTech Competition" on Saturday, January 17th. 11 teams from Western New York competed at six workstations over the course of the day. The event took place at the ECC Vehicle Technology Training Center in Orchard Park. Originally named the WNY High School Automotive Technology Competition, this contest was first held in 1995. This is a unique event geared toward encouraging the region's most talented high school automotive students to showcase their skills and train for a career as an automobile technician. This competition is designed to measure the technical/diagnostic abilities of the contestants, as well as their academic preparation.The competition is organized by the Niagara Frontier Automobile Dealers Association (NFADA), hosted by Erie Community College Vehicle Technology Training Center (ECC-VTTC) in Orchard Park, NY and supported by local dealerships, educational institutions, and local businesses. It is open to 12th grade automotive students from all 7 Western New York counties. This competition is the #1 source for bringing students, parents and educators together and getting them excited and informed about automotive education and the many career opportunities available to them right here in WNY.
Sports Briefs - January 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 1/15/2015"
Rotary/PTSA Recognition of Student Excellence- January 2015
The Grand Island Rotary and the High School PTSA have together established this recognition to honor Grand Island High School Seniors who have demonstrated strong academic achievement, together with an outstanding sense of dedication and service to their community. This recognition is open to all Grand Island High School Seniors. Students selected will be recognized in the local media, at the 2015 graduation ceremony and at a special banquet hosted by the Rotary that will be held on May 26, 2015 at the Buffalo Launch Club. Applications are in the School Office, on the PTSA website, or click here. Deadline for submission of applications is Wednesday, April 1st.
Carly Hand, National Contest Finalist - January 2015
Carly Hand & Jim Brickman
Congratulations to GIHS senior and pianist Carly Hand who was chosen to perform with musician Jim Brickman at Buffalo State Rockwell Hall on December 20th. Carly was a finalist in a national contest, "Jim Brickman in the Spotlight" and spent the afternoon and evening experiencing a day in the life of a professional musician. She performed Brickman's song "Angel Eyes" during the second act of the concert and received a standing ovation.
Prom 2.0: Fashion Show at GIHS - January 2015
On Friday, January 16th, the Class of 2015 is hosting a pre-prom fashion show in the Grand Island High School Cafeteria. "Prom 2.0: Fashion Show" opens at 7:00 p.m., giving guests a chance to talk to vendors, grab some coupons and take a seat along the runway. The show will begin just after 7:30 p.m. and will feature gorgeous gowns from TT New York, handsome tuxedos from Tuxedo Junction, lovely corsages and boutineers from Flower A Day Florist and stunning hairstyles from Hizair Salon - all modeled by members of the senior class. The event is open to Grand Island High School students of all grade levels, and parents are encouraged to come and get great ideas for prom, too. All this inspiration for Jr and Sr prom wear will set you back only $2, payable at the door.
Successful DECA Regionals for GI - January 2015
Medaille College was the setting for this year's Region 12 DECA Conference bringing 15 schools together to compete in business related events on Sunday, January 11. "When 115 students show up to catch their bus dressed for success, that means that they are definitely career and college ready!" exclaimed Cheryl Chamberlain, who has advised this growing DECA club for ten years. Chamberlain took over the DECA club when there were only six members, building the program to 150 members this year. This includes a large middle school chapter with the advisory skills of Mary Jane Fonte. Four middle school students made the state finals this year with scores that were extraordinary. All in all, 58 students qualified to travel to Rochester in March where they will compete against others to reach the International Career Conference in Orlando Florida in May. There were first place finishes in public speaking, marketing, business law team event, buying and merchandising team event, and broadcast advertising just to name a few. For more information on how DECA can help your middle or high school student, contact Chamberlain at 773-8820.
Sports Briefs - January 2015
Click "Sports Briefs 1/8/2015"
Girls High School Federation Ice Hockey Meeting - January 2015
We are very excited to announce an organizational meeting to bring Girls High
School Federation Ice Hockey to Grand Island. Girls varsity ice hockey is in
it's 5th season in WNY and growing every year. We would like to see Grand
Island as the next school district to add this opportunity for our female
athletes. Your support is needed! Even if your daughter is in elementary school right now, we need to show the sustainablility of a girls program, so please stop by. We encourage you to pass this message along to anyone you may think is interested in supporting a Grand Island Girls high school hockey team now and in the future. Please plan on attending the following informational meeting:
Date: Tuesday, January 13th
Time: 6:30pm
Where: Grand Island Library (community meeting room)
Who: Parents and Players are welcome.
For further information contact: Noel Blair, nblairjr@roadrunner.com, - 225-2742 or Mike Botticello, botts2121@yahoo.com -713-1022. Go Vikings!
Twelve Days of Christmas - January 2015
