During a recent government meeting, significant achievements in local education were highlighted, particularly the recognition of two schools in a prestigious national ranking. Jelena Junior High School and Naseke Elementary School were celebrated for their impressive placements in the US News and World Report's latest study, ranking 49th and 89th in the nation, respectively. Notably, these schools were the only representatives from Suffolk County to make the top rankings in their categories.

The meeting also provided a broader context for the district's performance, revealing that out of nearly 89,000 elementary schools nationwide, several others from the district received commendable rankings. Arrowhead Elementary ranked 1,151, Minnesaki Elementary at 344, and Mount Elementary at 832. In the junior high category, Dangelinos Junior High was ranked 49th among over 14,000 schools, while Murphy Junior High secured the 202nd position.

In the high school category, Ward Mill High School was ranked 1,221 out of over 20,000 schools nationwide, placing 127th in New York State. The district's high school was noted as the third highest in Suffolk County, although some debate exists regarding the rankings of nearby schools.

The meeting concluded with a commendation for the Board of Education, acknowledging their hard work and dedication, which has been instrumental in achieving these educational milestones. A formal recognition of the board is scheduled for the upcoming meeting on December 11, which is expected to be a lengthy session filled with further acknowledgments and discussions on fall sports. The community was encouraged to participate and celebrate these educational successes.