The Miller Place School District enthusiastically welcomed back students across its four schools on Wednesday, September 2, launching the 2026–2027 school year with a sense of excitement, optimism and anticipation for the year ahead.
“The beginning of a new school year is always a special time, and it is especially meaningful for me as I begin my first year with the Miller Place School District,” said Dr. Marc Ferris, Superintendent of Schools. “It was incredibly exciting to welcome our students back and see the enthusiasm throughout our schools. I am grateful to join such a dedicated community of educators, staff, families, and students, and I look forward to working together to make the 2026–2027 school year a year filled with learning, growth, and success.”
The opening day was filled with smiles, reunions, and the excitement that comes with beginning a new chapter. At Andrew Muller Primary School and Laddie A. Decker Sound Beach School, students arrived ready to begin the year, greeted by District administrators, principals, teachers, and staff. The warm welcome helped set the stage for a year centered on learning and building meaningful connections.
At North Country Road Middle School and Miller Place High School, students reunited with friends and educators, navigated their schedules and settled into the rhythms of a new academic year. With a renewed focus and enthusiasm, students across the District began the 2026–2027 school year ready to embrace new challenges, opportunities, and experiences.
Miller Place High School recently hosted a special court dedication ceremony honoring William Brown, a longtime Miller Place educator, coach, Athletic Director, and mentor. Known affectionally as Bill, his dedication to students and athletics left a lasting legacy throughout the Miller Place School District and community.
“Bill Brown represents the very best of Miller Place,” said Kevin Slavin, Miller Place High School Principal. “His impact extends far beyond the basketball court. He was a mentor and role model who believed deeply in our students and in the power of athletics to build character and community. It is incredibly fitting that this court now bears his name, and we are proud to honor the lasting legacy he has created for generations of Panthers.”
Mr. Brown began his career with the Miller Place School District in 1974 as a social studies teacher and coach. During his tenure as the boys basketball coach, he led the program to two league championships, earned three Coach of the Year honors, and amassed more victories than any other boys basketball coach in Miller Place history. He later served as the District’s athletic director, where he played an important role in supporting and sustaining Miller Place’s athletic programs. He also established the “Save Our Sports” (S.O.S.) Miller Place Outing, an initiative that helped support the District’s athletic offerings and reflected his commitment to providing students with opportunities to grow and succeed.
A decorated athlete and U.S. Navy veteran, Bill Brown earned Navy All-District honors in basketball and football during the Vietnam War before continuing his basketball career at Suffolk County Community College and Southampton College. His accomplishments and contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including induction into the Suffolk County Community College Athletic Hall of Fame and the Miller Place Athletic Hall of Fame, as well as being named a Times Beacon Man of the Year.
The dedication ceremony brought together Miller Place School District administrators, staff, students, and coaches, along with Brown’s former colleagues and family members to celebrate his remarkable career and the many lives he has touched throughout his decades of service to the District. The newly dedicated gymnasium signage will serve as a lasting reminder of Brown’s contributions to Miller Place and the generations of students who benefited from his commitment to excellence.
As many Miller Place High School seniors prepare for a new level of independence behind the wheel, the school recently welcomed approximately 100 students and their parents and guardians for the first Driver Safety Night of the year, an important program designed to promote safe, responsible driving.
Driver Safety Night is offered to all Miller Place High School seniors who want to obtain a school parking spot. The school holds four sessions throughout the year—two in September, one in November and a final session in January—giving students and families multiple opportunities to participate.
“For our students, earning a driver’s license is an exciting milestone that represents greater independence, but it also comes with a tremendous responsibility,” said Miller Place High School Principal Kevin Slavin. “Driver Safety Night gives us an opportunity to make sure our students understand that the choices they make behind the wheel can have lasting consequences.”
The program is led by Allen Ferrari, a Miller Place community member and former New York City police officer with extensive experience in driver safety and law enforcement. Through a thorough, straightforward presentation, Mr. Ferrari addresses the very real dangers and consequences associated with unsafe and distracted driving, drawing on his real-world experience to help students understand the responsibility that comes with operating a vehicle.
Allen Ferrari’s firsthand experience allows him to move beyond statistics and help students understand how quickly an unsafe decision can turn an ordinary trip into a life-changing event. Students are encouraged to take an active role in creating a culture of safe driving by putting their phones away, following speed limits, wearing seat belts, speaking up when a friend is driving unsafely, and making responsible choices every time they get behind the wheel.
The goal of Driver Safety Night extends beyond fulfilling a requirement for on-campus parking. The program emphasizes the importance of recognizing the potential consequences of speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, failing to wear a seat belt and succumbing to distractions or peer pressure when friends are in the vehicle.
“Student safety is always our highest priority, and programs like Driver Safety Night play an important role in preparing our students to make responsible decisions behind the wheel,” said Dr. Marc Ferris, Superintendent of Schools. “We sincerely thank Mr. Ferrari for sharing his expertise and helping our students understand the importance of safe driving.”
The Miller Place School District recently held its annual reorganization meeting, at which time Lisa Reitan and John Galligan were sworn in for their new terms as trustees.
Lisa Reitan was elected by the Board of Education as President and Andrea Spaniolas was elected by the Board of Education as Vice President. The 2026-2027 Board of Education also includes trustees Bryan Makarius and Jennifer Keller.
“Our District looks forward to another successful year under the leadership of a dedicated Board of Education team.” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie, who was also sworn in at the meeting for his final time at Miller Place.
The District wishes a warm welcome to the 2026-2027 Board of Education as it prepares for the school year ahead.
Students and Staff Take Home Several Awards After a Successful Season
The Miller Place Panthers once again cemented their place among Suffolk County’s best at the 53rd Annual Suffolk County Wrestling Awards Banquet, earning an impressive number of team, coaching, academic and administrative honors.
Leading the recognition, Miller Place Athletic Director Ron Petrie was named one of Suffolk County Wrestling’s Administrators of the Year for his continued leadership and commitment to the district’s athletic programs.
The Miller Place Panthers Varsity Wrestling Team was honored as Suffolk County’s “Most Improved Team” for the 2026 season. In addition, the Panthers were recognized as Suffolk County’s only Wrestling State Champion Team, a remarkable achievement that highlights the program’s dedication, perseverance and competitive excellence.
Varsity Head Coach Matt Kaszubski earned League VII and Suffolk County Division II Coach of the Year honors. Assistant Coach Dan Cassera was named League VII Varsity Assistant Coach of the Year, while Junior Varsity Coaches Chris Bold and Domenico Lo Re were recognized as the League VII JV Coaches of the Year.
Varsity wrestlers Alex Southworth, Reese Zakar, and Christian Caccavale were each honored as three of Suffolk County Wrestling’s Top 21 Scholar Athletes and received scholarship awards for their accomplishments. Alex earned a scholarship from the Suffolk County Wrestling Coaches Association, while Reese and Christian received scholarships from the Suffolk County Wrestling Officials Association.
Notably, Miller Place was the only school in Suffolk County to have three scholar-athletes recognized this year, a testament to the district’s commitment to excellence both on the mat and in the classroom.
“Our wrestling program continues to exemplify the very best of Miller Place,” said Miller Place Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “These honors reflect the dedication of our student-athletes, coaches, and athletic leadership, as well as the strong support from our families and community. We are incredibly proud of what this team has accomplished both athletically and academically.”
The Panthers’ success at this year’s awards banquet reflects a season defined by hard work, resilience, teamwork, and excellence at every level of the program.
The Miller Place High School Varsity Wrestling team was honored with several awards at the 53rd Annual Suffolk County Wrestling Awards Banquet.The Miller Place High School Varsity Wrestling team was honored with several awards at the 53rd Annual Suffolk County Wrestling Awards Banquet.Varsity Head Coach Matt Kaszubski and Junior Varsity Coaches Domenico Lo Re and Chris Bold received significant accolades for their outstanding leadership.Miller Place Athletic Director Ron Petrie was named one of Suffolk County Wrestling’s Administrators of the Year.Miller Place was the only school in Suffolk County to have three scholar-athletes recognized this year.
Camryn Hardy Honored at the Suffolk County Scholar Athlete Brunch in May
Miller Place High School is proud to announce that student athlete Senior Camryn Hardy was recognized on a county level for his athletic excellence and was honored at the Suffolk County Scholar Athlete Brunch.
Camryn Hardy received the 2025 Bryan Collins Memorial Scholarship, a $5,000 award from the Collins family, for his outstanding performance as one of Suffolk County’s top football players as well as someone who had to overcome adversity while excelling on the field. Camryn has faced unimaginable hardship and loss throughout his life, yet found purpose, stability, and strength through football.
This scholarship, presented by the National Football Foundation (NFF) Suffolk County Chapter and honoring the former LIU Post and Stony Brook University coach, recognizes elite regional football talent and supports recipients in their collegiate careers.
“Excelling in sports while overcoming adversity is a tribute to his character said Kevin Slavin, principal of Miller Place High School. Camryn accepted this challenge and was awarded for his hard work and dedication.”
The District congratulates Camryn Hardy on his incredible achievement.
Miller Place High School Senior Camryn Hardy was recognized on a county level for his athletic excellence and was honored at the Suffolk County Scholar Athlete Brunch.
District’s music program earns the NAMM 2026 Best Communities for Music Education Award
For the 11th consecutive year, the Miller Place School District was named one of the Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation. The honor highlights the District’s unwavering commitment to music education and celebrates the exceptional efforts of its music administrators, teachers and students.
Miller Place’s comprehensive music program offers daily instruction at the elementary, middle and high school levels, while providing students with frequent opportunities to perform and showcase their talents. Throughout the year, students participate in concerts, recitals, school productions and special community events, enriching both their educational experience and the broader community.
The 2026 Best Communities for Music Education designation was awarded to just 1,008 school districts nationwide, recognizing those that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing access to high-quality music education for all students.
Miller Place has earned this distinction for 11 consecutive years. To qualify, the District responded to a rigorous set of criteria, including questions related to funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for music programs and community music-making opportunities. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by The Music Research Institute at the University of Kansas.
“We are proud to receive this recognition for the 11th year in a row,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “Music is an essential part of a well-rounded education, and this honor reflects the passion and dedication of our teachers, the enthusiasm of our students and the strong support from our community. We remain committed to ensuring that every student has access to enriching musical experiences.”
The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its 15,000 members around the world. The NAMM Foundation works to advance active participation in music making by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs.
The Miller Place School District was named among the 2026 Best Communities for Music Education by the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.The Miller Place High School band as pictured at its annual Winter concert.
NHL Goalie Brandon Bussi Graduated from Miller Place High School in 2016
The Miller Place School District proudly recognizes Miller Place High School 2016 alumnus Brandon Bussi, who is currently making headlines as a rising star and goaltender for the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes. The Carolina Hurricanes recently signed Brandon to a three-year extension through 2028-29.
Brandon Bussi recently became the fastest goaltender in NHL history to reach 20 career wins, an extraordinary milestone that has captured the attention of hockey fans across the country and inspired young athletes in his hometown community. As of early 2026, the 27-year-old goalie has posted an impressive 23-3-1 record with a 2.16 goals-against average, establishing himself as one of the league’s top goalies during the 2025-26 season.He is tied for third in the NHL.
“Brandon’s accomplishments are a source of tremendous pride for our entire Miller Place community,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “His record-breaking start in the NHL and his determination, work ethic and character serves as an inspiration to our students, showing them that their goals are within reach through perseverance and dedication.
Brandon’s impact extends beyond the ice. Recently, he made a young local goalie’s day by sending a personalized, signed photo, underscoring his character and willingness to inspire the next generation. For student-athletes, seeing a former MPHS graduate excel at the highest level of professional sports serves as powerful motivation to pursue their own goals.
On graduating from Miller Place High School, Brandon Bussi had a standout hockey career while attending Western Michigan University. He went on to compete in the American Hockey League with the Providence Bruins before joining the Carolina Hurricanes in October 2025.
The Miller Place School District congratulates Brandon Bussi on his record-breaking accomplishments and continued success.
The Miller Place School District proudly recognizes Miller Place High School 2016 alumnus Brandon Bussi, who is currently the goalie of the National Hockey League’s Carolina Hurricanes.
Community Celebrates the Team with a Special Send-Off Ahead of the Victory
The Miller Place High School Varsity Wrestling team has made history, securing the school’s first Division II New York State Championship following a stellar season of determination and skill.
Ahead of the championship, the Miller Place School District hosted a special send-off to honor the team as they departed for the tournament at the SRC Arena at Onondaga County Community College in Syracuse. The Miller Place High School marching band performed for the team as they marched through the halls where students and staff were lined up cheering them on and celebrating their hard work, dedication and achievements.
The Panthers defeated Shoreham-Wading River 45-24 in a thrilling showdown, marking their third victory over the same team in just two weeks and earning the prestigious Division II dual meet state title.
“We’ve had a really strong program. This is the first time we’ve won a county dual meet title and state championship.” said Miller Place Head Coach Matt Kaszubski. “It’s significant, not only for the program but for the District. It brings a lot of pride to the community and we’re really happy to represent them up in Syracuse.”
Leading the charge for Miller Place were standout wrestlers Nicolo Dolson, Brett Winslow, Charles Clifford, Alex Southworth, Jack Miller, Brice Browning, Andrew Bennett-Guma, Bradyn Ellis and Reese Zakar. Each athlete contributed crucial points and momentum, helping the Panthers pull ahead and secure the championship.
“It’s a close match every time with Shoreham,” Coach Kaszubski said in an interview with Newsday. “We had to make some adjustments to get the right matchups, or it could go the other way. Our guys really came through tonight. It’s hard to beat a quality team like Shoreham once, let alone three times. Our kids were outstanding and met the challenge three times.”
After clinching the state championship, the Panthers are now focusing their attention on individual competitions. The team will compete next at the Section XI individual wrestling championships later this month, where several wrestlers are expected to contend for top honors. The Division II finals are scheduled for Feb. 13 at Shoreham-Wading River High School.
Miller Place High School and the entire community applaud the Panthers for their historic achievement and look forward to continued success on and off the mat.
The Miller Place High School Varsity Wrestling team received a special community send-off just before winning the Division II New York State Dual Meet Championship.
Schedule an appointment to register yourincoming kindergartener for September 2026 enrollment
Miller Place School District’s annual registration process for Andrew Muller Primary School’s kindergarten begins on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, and runs through Friday, March 20th, 2026. Miller Place-Sound Beach children who are five years old on or before December 1, 2026 are eligible to enter kindergarten for the 2026-2027 school year.
In order to avoid any delay in the registration process, please complete the registration packet prior to your registration appointment and have the required supporting documentation readily available at the time of the appointment. Information regarding required forms are available at: https://www.millerplace.k12.ny.us/district-information/registration/kindergarten-registration
Incomplete registration packets will not be accepted and if any documentation is missing, you may be asked to make a new appointment to bring in a completed packet.
Registration appointments will be conducted at District Office, located at 7 Memorial Drive, Miller Place. For more information regarding the registration process, please call Elizabeth Cascione at 631-474-2700 ext. 728.
Miller Place School District Kindergarten students are seen enjoying a Thanksgiving celebration at Andrew Muller Primary School. The District’s kindergarten registration begins on Monday, March 2nd, 2026, and runs through Friday, March 20th, 2026.
