Miller Place Congratulates Stephen on the Prestigious Accomplishment

Miller Place High School is proud to announce that senior Stephen Ye has been named a Newsday Long Island Scholar Artist for the 2025-2026 school year, a prestigious recognition honoring students who excel both academically and artistically.   

“Stephen Ye exemplifies the very best of Miller Place, a student whose exceptional artistic talent is matched by his academic excellence,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and are confident he will continue to excel on a national and international level.”

A world-class violinist, Stephen Ye’s musical talent has earned him national and international acclaim. In 2025 alone, he claimed first place in the American Protégé International Concerto Competition, the International Music Competition Salzburg Grand Prize Virtuoso, and the American International Music Competition. He was also selected to perform with the NYSSMA All-State Symphony Orchestra and previously won the Manhattan School of Music Chamber Music Competition.

Stephen told Newsday that “music represents a form of expression in its purest form.” His artistry has been showcased on some of the world’s most esteemed stages, including two solo performances at Carnegie Hall and a debut invitation at the Solitär Mozarteum in Salzburg, Austria. As concertmaster of the Manhattan School of Music Pre-College Symphony Orchestra, he leads with technical brilliance and emotional depth. Offstage, he shares his passion for music as a youth radio host and editor for WUSB 90.1 FM’s China Blue Summer Program, using media to promote music as a cross-cultural bridge.

Beyond his musical achievements, Stephen exemplifies leadership and academic excellence at Miller Place High School. He serves as president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Executive Student Council, and Math Olympiad Club, as well as co-president of the Science Olympiad team. Deeply committed to community outreach, he co-founded Green String Inc., a nonprofit organization that brings live chamber music to senior homes and civic centers. He also performs locally with the Sound Symphony Orchestra.

Stephen’s talents extend beyond music. A competitive chess player, tennis athlete, and PC builder, he embodies creativity, precision, and intellectual rigor. He plans to pursue studies in economics or applied mathematics in college.

Miller Place High School congratulates Stephen Ye on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to all he will continue to accomplish as an artist, scholar, and leader.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

Panther’s Victory Over West Babylon Reaches Record for Coach LaMorte

Alana Gomory (LaMorte), head coach of the Miller Place High School field hockey team, achieved a major career milestone on September 25th by securing her 250th win at the helm of the Panthers. The team marked the occasion in dominant fashion, shutting out West Babylon, 8-0, in a Suffolk Division II matchup.

Now in her 19th season leading the program, Coach Gomory (LaMorte) has been a cornerstone of Miller Place field hockey, guiding generations of athletes with passion, discipline, and a commitment to excellence.

“We’re incredibly proud of Coach Gomory (LaMorte) and the legacy she continues to build here at Miller Place,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “Her dedication has shaped the success and spirit of our field hockey program for nearly two decades.”

During the record-setting victory, Giulia Francese led the offense with two goals. Mackenzie Burger, Ava Walter, and Zoe Weisman each contributed a goal and an assist, while Stella Musso tallied two assists. With the win, the Panthers improved their record to 6-3 on the season.

As the season progresses, the Panthers continue to set their sights high with their veteran coach and strong team dynamic leading the way.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

MPHS Panthers are Victorious Against John Glenn Knights with a Final Score of 34-33

The Miller Place School District recently wrapped up a spirited and successful Homecoming celebration that brought together students, staff, alumni and community members for a week filled with tradition, pride and Panther spirit. The festivities culminated in a victorious home game for the Miller Place Panthers, who defeated the John Glenn Knights with a final score of 34-33.

“Homecoming was a true testament to the unity and spirit of the Miller Place community,” said Superintendent of Schools Mr. Seth Lipshie. “It was incredible to see students, families, staff, and alumni come together to celebrate our school pride. Congrats to the Miller Place Panthers on their hard-fought victory!”

The festivities kicked off with the District’s annual Spirit Week, during which students and staff showcased their creativity and school pride by dressing according to daily themes. The week culminated in “Spirit Day,” where students proudly wore their favorite Miller Place gear. A high-energy pep rally capped off the week, featuring exciting class competitions that boosted enthusiasm for the big game.

The Homecoming celebration continued on Saturday, September 20, with a community parade that featured Panther cheerleaders, the MPHS pep band, the Miller Place Fire Department, community organizations and students from all district buildings. Each high school class marched alongside handcrafted floats decorated according to this year’s theme: Pixar movies. The freshmen class drew inspiration from Ratatouille, the sophomore class dressed as different characters from Monster’s Inc., the junior class went as Cars and created a life-size Lightning McQueen, and the Class of 2026 went as the first and most renowned Pixar film Toy Story.

The parade began at the Miller Place Fire Department South and made its way to Stadium Field, where fans gathered for pre-game festivities ahead of the much-anticipated football game. The stadium was roaring with enthusiasm throughout the thrilling matchup, during which the Miller Place Panthers took on the John Glenn Knights in a nail-biting game that ended with a Panther victory and a score of 34-33.

The Miller Place School District thanks all those who participated and helped organize this memorable event and looks forward to carrying the momentum into the rest of the school year.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

The Miller Place High School senior class designed their float according to the Disney and Pixar film Toy Story.

The Miller Place School District proudly welcomed back more than 2,250 students across its four schools this week, kicking off the 2025-2026 academic year with excitement, enthusiasm and a shared commitment to student success.

“The energy on the first day is always special,” said Superintendent of Schools Mr. Seth Lipshie. “Our faculty and staff have worked hard to prepare for another outstanding year, and it was inspiring to see our students so eager to return. We look forward to all the opportunities and achievements the 2025-2026 school year will bring.”
The first day of school was marked by cheerful reunions, eager anticipation and joyful energy as students, staff and faculty embraced the start of a new school year. At the elementary level, students at Andrew Muller Primary School and Laddie A. Decker Sound Beach School arrived with beaming smiles as they stepped off buses and were warmly greeted by District administration, their principals, school staff and teachers. The welcoming atmosphere set a positive tone for a year full of learning, growth, and new friendships.
At North Country Road Middle School and Miller Place High School, students reconnected with classmates and teachers, settled into their routines and began their academic journeys with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the coming year.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

“The energy on the first day is always special,” said Superintendent of Schools Mr. Seth Lipshie. “Our faculty and staff have worked hard to prepare for another outstanding year, and it was inspiring to see our students so eager to return. We look forward to all the opportunities and achievements the 2025-2026 school year will bring.”

The first day of school was marked by cheerful reunions, eager anticipation and joyful energy as students, staff and faculty embraced the start of a new school year. At the elementary level, students at Andrew Muller Primary School and Laddie A. Decker Sound Beach School arrived with beaming smiles as they stepped off buses and were warmly greeted by District administration, their principals, school staff and teachers. The welcoming atmosphere set a positive tone for a year full of learning, growth, and new friendships.

At North Country Road Middle School and Miller Place High School, students reconnected with classmates and teachers, settled into their routines and began their academic journeys with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement for the coming year.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

Board of Education Newly Elected Trustee is Sworn in For First Term

The Miller Place School District recently held its annual organizational meeting, at which time newly elected Board member Jennifer Keller was sworn in for her first term as a trustee.

Lisa Reitan was re-elected by the Board of Education as President and Bryan Makarius was re-elected by the Board of Education as Vice President. Lisa Reitan was first elected President by the Board three years ago for the 2022-2023 school year and served as the Board’s Vice President in the 2021-2022 school year. Bryan Makarius was first elected Vice President three years ago for the 2022-2023 school year and served as a trustee in the 2021-2022 school year. The 2025-2026 Board of Education also includes trustees Andrea Spaniolas and John Galligan.

“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 fourth year.

The District wishes a warm welcome to the 2025-2026 Board of Education as it prepares for the school year ahead.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

District’s Inclusive Team Gives All Students an Opportunity to Shine on the Court

The Unified Basketball team at Miller Place High School in the Miller Place School District proudly celebrated its Senior players, marking the culmination of an incredible second season built on teamwork, inclusion, and community spirit.

“The Unified Basketball Team has become such a meaningful part of our athletic program in our school,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “It brings out the best in our students and shows the power of sports to spark confidence, inspire others and foster community.”

The Miller Place Unified Basketball Team, part of the Special Olympics Unified Sports initiative, pairs students from the school’s Special Education program with Varsity student-athletes who compete on the same team. The program, now in its second year, has made a lasting impact on the school community, promoting acceptance and shared achievement through athletics.  

Since its launch, the Miller Place Unified team has welcomed 26 student-athletes, embodying the spirit of collaboration both on and off the court. The team competes as part of Section XI Athletics, playing an eight-game season against other Suffolk County schools — with an even split of four home and four away games. 

The recent Senior Game honored the team’s graduating athletes and celebrated their leadership, dedication and positive influence on the entire school community. Families, students, and staff came together to recognize these student-athletes and the lasting legacy they leave behind.

As the program continues to grow, Miller Place High School remains committed to fostering a culture where every student is given the opportunity to shine.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

FBLA Team Creates First-Place Invention at “Pitch it to Win It” Competition

The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students at Miller Place High School in the Miller Place School District has proudly claimed first place in the New York State “Pitch It To Win It” competition by showcasing innovation, entrepreneurship and technical creativity through their original invention.

“We’re incredibly proud of the FBLA team for standing out in this prestigious competition with their incredible invention and creativity,” said Miller Place School District Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “Their ingenuity, teamwork, and dedication truly raised the bar and each of them is deserving of this recognition.”

Seniors Nick Vallary and Erin Felser led the team to victory with their groundbreaking invention, MasterKey: an external device that transforms any standard piano into a player piano without requiring any physical modification to the instrument. Their invention impressed judges for its practicality, market potential and seamless integration with existing musical equipment.

MasterKey not only exemplifies cutting-edge thinking but also holds promise for broad application in both educational and entertainment settings, providing musicians, instructors, and music lovers with a cost-effective way to automate piano performances.

The “Pitch It To Win It” competition challenges high school students across New York to conceive, develop, and pitch innovative business or product ideas to a panel of industry and academic judges. The Miller Place FBLA team’s first-place finish marks a significant achievement and highlights the school’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial thinking and real-world problem-solving skills.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

Brendan Lake is Presented with Honor Named After Motivational Speaker and Accomplished Athlete Rohan Murphy

The Miller Place School District is proud to announce that Miller Place High School student Brendan Lake recently earned the esteemed Rohan Murphy Inspirational Wrestler of the Year Award by the Suffolk County Wrestling Coaches Association. Nominated by his coaches and teachers, Brendan was presented with the remarkable recognition at the 52nd Annual All County Awards Dinner.

“Brendan Lake exemplifies everything this award stands for: resilience, heart, and the unwavering belief that hard work can overcome any barrier,” said Miller Place School District Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “His story has been an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of witnessing it.”

The Rohan Murphy Award honors student wrestlers who demonstrate strength, tenacity and dedication in transcending obstacles. On and off the mat, Brendan’s journey and achievements have served as a powerful source of inspiration for his teammates, coaches and the Miller Place community.

The award is named after Rohan Murphy, a celebrated American Paralympian, accomplished wrestler, and nationally recognized motivational speaker. Having had both legs amputated at a young age, Murphy overcame extraordinary challenges to compete as a Division I wrestler at Penn State University. His story has been featured by ABC News, Sports Illustrated, 20/20, and as part of Nike’s groundbreaking ‘No Excuses’ campaign.

Murphy’s legacy continues to motivate young athletes across the nation, and Brendan Lake’s nomination places him among a special group of students who demonstrate what is possible through perseverance and determination.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

Jillian Scully Defends Her Title at State Track and Field Championships

Miller Place High School senior Jillian Scully has proven herself once again as one of the most remarkable athletes in New York State, repeating her title at the NYSPHSAA and NYS Federation Champion in the shot put for the 2024 and 2025 indoor track seasons. Jillian claimed the championship title at the New York State Indoor Track and Field Championships held at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex in Staten Island earlier this month.  

“Jillian Scully is an outstanding athlete who is competing in her own league by continuing to beat her own records,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “She represents Miller Place with pride, enthusiasm and passion. We are thrilled to celebrate her exceptional accomplishments and look forward to watching her continue to shine at the collegiate level and beyond.”

After winning her first state title in 2024, Jillian continued her impressive reign this year by beating her own record and outpacing her competition by more than four feet with a throw of 46 feet, 11 ½ inches. She also holds the indoor record for both Suffolk County and Long Island, which she earned by placing first at the Section XI NYS Qualifier with a personal best distance of 48 feet, 4.25 inches.

Jillian’s record-breaking indoor season also included a fifth-place finish at the Nike Nationals and her third consecutive state championship title. Her winter training regimen involved practicing outdoors in the cold weather for roughly four hours a day, six days a week, which helped her perfect her throwing form and elevate her performance to new heights.

Jillian’s accomplishments were not limited to the shot put, as she also dominated the state discus championship. Her remarkable achievements in both shot put and discus earned her All-American honors once again.

As she looks ahead to her collegiate career, Jillian will continue her athletic journey in the track and field program at Louisiana State University (LSU). Her time at Miller Place will be remembered for her unwavering dedication and the legacy of excellence she leaves behind.

For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.

Student scientists finished seventh of 63 teams in regional contest 

Miller Place High School students recently showcased exemplary skills and dedication at the Eastern Long Island Regional Science Olympiad on January 25. For the first time in the District’s history, Miller Place had enough students to field two teams at the competition. Team A finished in seventh out of 63 teams throughout eastern Long Island, securing them a spot in the New York State Science Olympiad in Syracuse from March 21 through 22. 

“We are proud of our students’ hard work in the regional Science Olympiad,” said Superintendent of Schools Mr. Seth Lipshie. “These students excelled throughout the rigorous competition and represented Miller Place with pride and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing what they can accomplish at the state competition next month.”

Miller Place had two teams competing in the regional competition in 26 challenging categories such as air trajectory, entomology, forensics, wind power and experimental design.

Team A included an experienced group of 14 students led by Team Captains Lucy Chang and Taylor McHugh. Each member delivered a stellar performance, with senior Bianca Zou winning three medals across 4 events. The team included seven seniors who won 12 of the team’s 18 medals.

Team B also showed incredible talent and skill with freshmen Mathilde Snijders and Cate Worcester earning Miller Place two additional medals.

The District congratulates all the Miller Place High School Science Olympiad students and wishes Team A good luck in the state competition next month!  For more information about the Miller Place School District, please visit the District’s website at www.millerplace.k12.ny.us. To read more about the great things happening in Miller Place schools, visit www.millerplaceinthemedia.com and ‘like’ our Facebook page.