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.

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.

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. 

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.

Schedule an appointment to register your incoming 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 20^th, 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.

As part of the two-step process, residents will begin registration by scheduling a mandatory appointment via the district’s online platform, which could be found here: https://calendly.com/schoolsignup/miller-place-kindergarten-registration-2026-27?month=2026-

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.

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.

Family and Friends Gather to Celebrate the Legacy and Service of Dr. Brindley

The Miller Place School District recently unveiled the naming of the District Office Conference Room in honor of Grace J. Brindley, a highly respected and long-serving member of the Miller Place community. The Board of Education approved of the naming to recognize Dr. Brindley’s leadership, commitment and decades of service to the students, staff, and families of Miller Place. Administration, staff and Board of Education members gathered with the Brindley family and friends at the dedication ceremony.

Dr. Grace J. Brindley began her distinguished 37-year career in the District as an Art teacher in 1973. Over the following decades, she served in a series of leadership roles in Miller Place, including Director of the Gifted and Talented Program, Assistant Principal and Principal of Andrew Muller Primary School, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, and Superintendent of Schools before her retirement in 2009.

Throughout her tenure, Dr. Brindley was instrumental in implementing numerous initiatives that strengthened academic programs and enhanced student learning. Her leadership was key in the adoption of District-wide K–12 curricula, the Joint Education Technology Plan, the Literacy Collaborative Program, Academic Intervention Services and Operation Success. She helped facilitate the District-wide SmartBoard implementation, the adoption of new reading and math series, and secured grants supporting math and science remediation as well as drug-free school initiatives.

The daughter of immigrants and the first sibling in her family to attend college in 1957, she embodied perseverance, integrity, and dedication. Dr. Brindley not only devoted her career to Miller Place, she made it her home. She raised five Miller Place graduates and contributed to the community with both toughness and compassion.

“Dr. Brindley’s legacy is woven into our District,” said Superintendent of Schools Seth Lipshie. “Her advocacy and commitment shaped generations of students and educators. Naming this conference room in her honor is a meaningful gesture.”

The district recently welcomed Dr. Brindley’s family and friends for a formal dedication ceremony celebrating extraordinary contributions.

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.

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.