Administration

Mr. Antonio Santana

September 2024

I cannot begin to express the excitement we are feeling at the prospect of a new school year. The school district is eagerly anticipating the return of its staff and students and we are looking forward to another exciting year of growth and achievement. In preparation, we've updated several curricula across the district, including Elementary Art and Earth Space Science at Bellport High School, and Computer courses at Bellport Middle School. Spanish, Home Language Arts, and Dual Language programs have all seen revisions, as well as Word Study for grades 3-5 and the Math and ELA MTSS Toolkits. We've also aligned Science Investigations and Social Studies for grades 4-5, introduced a new Active Citizenship course at BHS, and revised ENL and PE/Health curriculums across various grades.

Over the summer, our district has also been hard at work ensuring that our facilities are safe, efficient, and ready to support our students, staff, and community in the upcoming school year. Comprehensive building condition assessments were conducted to identify key areas for improvement, leading to renovations and upgrades across our schools. At Bellport High School, the Main Office has undergone a complete redesign to better serve our administrative needs and enhance the overall environment. District-wide, we've repaved sidewalks and parking lots, ensuring safety and accessibility for all. The tennis courts received a fresh surface, providing an improved athletic facility for our students and community.

In alignment with ADA standards, new ramps have been installed at Headstart and Critz, furthering our commitment to inclusivity. At Brookhaven Elementary School, the Kindergarten Wing has been renovated to create a more conducive learning environment for our youngest learners, alongside the installation of new kitchen floors. Drainage repairs have also been completed at Bellport High School, addressing long-standing concerns. These renovations reflect our ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing our school environments, ensuring they are equipped to support the educational success and well-being of every student.

The district has also adopted our new Code of Conduct which represents the culmination of year’s worth of collaborative work and stakeholder engagement. We are extremely proud of the final product as it really emphasizes our commitment to social and emotional supports and restorative practices. Our Code highlights our dedication to equity and the dignity of every member of our school community. The Code of Conduct is accessible on our website at southcountry.org.

We are proud of all the work we have accomplished during the summer break and will continue to work towards our Clipper PRIDE!

The first day of school for all students is Tuesday, September 3, 2024 and we have several events planned for our learning community. Aside from the start of middle and high school sports, we will be hosting Meet the Teacher nights in all of our schools, PTA meetings, an ice cream social at Bellport High School, and a 6th grade dance. All exciting events to get the school year off to a great start. Please consult the school district calendar for the schedule of events.

At South Country Central School District, our aim is to cultivate a space where teachers, students, administrators, parents, and community members collaborate closely to create an environment that truly reflects the positive and supportive nature of our community. Together, we are united in our mission to provide our students with the best possible learning experience. As we enter this new school year, we are setting high expectations, embracing hard work, and offering unwavering support for both students and staff— all guided by kindness. And of course, let’s not forget that school should be enjoyable too!

We are really looking forward to welcoming back our students on Tuesday, September 3rd, for our first day of school and an entirely fresh start. Let’s make this year our best year in South Country!

It really is a pleasure and honor serving the South Country community as your Superintendent of Schools.

Sincerely,
Antonio Santana
Superintendent of Schools

Click here to view the letter in Spanish.