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Spartan Spotlight Vol 3 No. 2
A Letter from Dr. Spindler
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It was not too long ago I was writing a letter to our Spartan Community to celebrate our summer achievements and wish everyone well as we embarked on the 2025-26 school year. Now, we are already in the holiday season and I cannot believe how much time has passed! And with that time, we have seen so many great things from our Spartans.
Our fall athletes had an exciting season full of spirit and determination. Congratulations to all of our students who achieved personal bests, were instrumental in many wins and brought the pride of FUFSD to so many places this year.
Congratulations are also in order for our S.S. Seward drama club members who put on a successful cabaret. These students brought talent, fun and collaboration to our stage. I cannot wait to see them do it again in our musical.
During the fall, I was touched by the amount of community service our students participated in. From our youngest students to our oldest, they were leaving the impacts of our district across the Florida community and I could not be more proud.
Speaking of our youngest students, Golden Hill had a successful Thankful show as well as Winter Soiree. It was so special to spend time with families and see the pride everyone had for our students.
Golden Hill also participated in their first annual bulletin board decorating contest, and I hope you all will join me in celebrating their hard work by voting for your favorite design, though I admit it was a challenge to pick just one favorite.
I want to wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. Let us take a moment for ourselves and come back refreshed, ready to Engage Minds, Empower Futures and Excel Together!
FUFSD Receives 2026 Sourcewell Mini Grant for School Safety Improvements
The Florida Union Free School District has been selected to receive a 2026 AASA Sourcewell “Helping Kids” mini grant for $3,500. This grant will be used to purchase lockdown window shades for our classrooms, improving infrastructure and enhancing safety, which is critical to student learning, while providing improved visibility into the hallway when it is not in use.
District officials said that continuously improving school safety is a critical area, and maintaining consistency across the district is paramount. These window shades will replace older or DIY versions of the shades that teachers are using in their classrooms. By implementing the same safety features throughout classrooms, the district aims to ensure students and staff experience uniform procedures and protections regardless of location.
Sourcewell and AASA, the School Superintendents Association, have been providing funds to school districts for technology equity in education, connectivity, and learning in this digital world since 2012.
FUFSD was awarded the Sourcewell mini grant last year as well, and the hot spots purchased using the funds have been a tremendous success in providing students and staff with consistent connectivity across the district.
Officials said the continued support from Sourcewell and AASA allows the district to address both immediate needs and long-term priorities, particularly in areas that directly impact student safety and access to learning.
Seen at S.S. Seward
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The Army JROTC cadets recently completed an enriching field trip to the Goshen Emergency Services Center, where they participated in hands-on CPR, AED and first-aid training. Guided by certified emergency management professionals, the cadets met all requirements to earn their official American Heart Association certifications, a significant achievement that underscores their dedication to preparedness, leadership and community service.
During the full-day program, cadets practiced essential life-saving techniques and learned how to respond calmly and effectively in high-pressure situations. Instructors led students through scenarios involving cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden medical events, giving them practical experience in assessing situations, administering care and coordinating with others. The training boosted their confidence and provided skills that can be applied at home, at school and throughout the community.
The visit also emphasized cooperation and teamwork, two pillars of the JROTC program. Cadets worked in small groups to support one another, ask questions and refine their techniques. In addition to the technical skills gained, the experience reinforced the importance of service, responsibility and readiness.
By the end of the training, cadets walked away with nationally recognized certifications and a clearer understanding of how they can help others in moments of need. The day proved both educational and memorable, further strengthening the JROTC Department’s mission to develop capable, compassionate and service-minded young leaders.
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Business Law students at S.S. Seward Institute had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Richard Moran, an Assistant District Attorney with Orange County, during a visit to their classroom this week.
Moran, who has more than 20 years of experience practicing law, discussed his career path and the day-to-day responsibilities of a prosecutor. He engaged students in an interactive question-and-answer session, offering insight into the legal process and the importance of evidence and preparation in building strong arguments.
“Listening to real cases and learning what his job is actually like was really interesting,” said 11th grader Brooke Ehlers. “It was also interesting to learn the differences between prosecution and defense and how each side has a role in ensuring trials are fair. Overall, the visit helped me understand the justice system better and showed how much responsibility lawyers actually have.”
Ryleigh LeCastre, a 12th grader, said Moran’s visit provided valuable perspective. “He led us through the guidelines and hardships of being a prosecutor and shared anecdotes about his experiences. His time in our class gave me a lot of perspective on the law and how lawyers operate,” LeCastre said.
Teacher Dominick Pascullo shared that bringing professionals into classrooms gives students valuable resources when it comes to their learning and their careers. “Visitors like this allow the students to hear from people out there, on the front lines so to speak, who can share their experiences. For example, Mr. Moran was able to talk about specific cases he had prosecuted and the process behind them. This allows the walls between the classroom and the real world to come down and blend together. It's a very worthwhile experience for our students.”
In addition to his work as a prosecutor, Moran volunteers as an attorney adviser for the school’s Mock Trial team. Faculty and students expressed their appreciation for his time and dedication.
Golden Hill Happenings
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At Golden Hill Elementary, the holidays are taken seriously. This year, new traditions are being implemented with an official Bulletin Board Decorating Contest all are invited to participate in and pre-k’s first Winter Soiree!
Utilizing the district’s Facebook page as a voting platform, teachers are decking their halls and getting into the competitive spirit with their bulletin board designs.
“It’s exciting to involve our community in our celebrations,” said Principal Starla Ciarelli. “And the kids love when everyone gets involved.”
Teachers had two weeks to complete their decorating before voting opened to the FUFSD community via Facebook.
In another new holiday tradition, Golden Hill’s pre-k classes hosted their loved ones for an exciting Winter Soiree!
The students performed three songs alongside their music teacher Kristin Risedorph who accompanied them on the xylophone, then joined their families for donuts and a craft.
Pre-k student Magnolia Redman was thrilled at the success of the performance. She had a front row spot for the show and shared this meant she had to smile the whole way through.
“I liked the last song,” said Redman. “I got to point to my mommy when we sang ‘I love you!’”
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Golden Hill’s second graders recently celebrated their 50th day of school with a day full of 1950’s treats, activities and outfits!
Nicole Moundroukas led her class dressed in a poodle skirt and ascot. She even brought her roller skates in case an opportunity arose to show off her skills!
“They’re learning skip counting, so I thought I could make it exciting with a theme,” said Moundroukas.
Students participated in many math activities throughout the day. One activity consisted of students coming up with as many ways as they could think of to make 50 cents with different coin combinations- did you know there are 292 ways?
During their celebration, students also learned about historic moments of the 1950s such as the invention of Legos, the first published Peanuts comic strip and the fame of Elvis Presley!
In another math activity with a 1950s diner theme, students were told to pretend they had 50 cents to spend at the diner and were given a menu with items listed at various prices. They were told to place an order with all fifty cents, but to be careful not to go over budget.
To celebrate their hard work, students ended the day by enjoying ice cream and listening to music from the 1950s.
Capital Improvement Update
The district continues to make steady progress on its capital improvement projects, with work underway or planned across all phases. These investments are designed to enhance safety, functionality and learning environments for students and staff.
Phase One: Gymnasiums and Roofing
Phase One of construction is nearing completion. New bleachers have been installed in the gymnasiums at both S.S. Seward and Golden Hill Elementary. At S.S. Seward, the project also included relining the gym floor and applying a fresh coat of paint to the walls.
At Golden Hill, a production error affected a portion of the bleachers. A replacement section has been manufactured and is scheduled for installation Dec. 30, 2025.
Roof replacement and refurbishment at S.S. Seward have also been completed in all areas not covered under an existing warranty. This work extends the life of the roof and provides the district with a new 20-year warranty.
Phase 1.5: Golden Hill Roofing
The roofing work at Golden Hill is being designated as “Phase 1.5.” The initial budget for roof reconstruction did not fully align with actual costs. In response, the Facilities Department, in collaboration with CPL, evaluated several options and secured a fiscally responsible solution. The roof will receive a second membrane and a 20-year warranty.
While the project timeline has been adjusted, the district is pleased to share that Golden Hill’s roof is now scheduled for completion in the summer of 2026.
Phase Two: Restrooms and Ventilation
The district has officially gone out to bid on Phase Two of the Capital Improvement Project. Based on pre-bid estimates, the district anticipates remaining on budget once bids are returned.
Phase Two includes the renovation of two restrooms: the first-floor girls’ restroom at S.S. Seward and the third-grade boys’ restroom at Golden Hill.
This phase also begins a long-term effort to replace classroom unit ventilators. While this work will occur over multiple capital improvement cycles, the district will start with 13 classrooms. The Facilities Department and building administrators have identified priority rooms in each building.
Phase Three: Library Transformations
Planning is underway for Phase Three, which will focus on transforming the district’s two libraries. CPL, Superintendent Dr. Lisamarie Spindler and the project team have drafted initial designs and held focus group workshops at both S.S. Seward and Golden Hill. Architects and designers gathered input from students, staff and parents and met with district leadership as part of the planning process. The district looks forward to sharing finalized designs.
Spartan Sports Round-Up
Spartan Sports Round-Up: Fall & Winter Kickoff
We are thrilled to celebrate the dedication and success of our student-athletes! The Fall season concluded with outstanding achievements both on the field and in the classroom, setting an inspiring tone as our Winter programs take off.
Fall Sports Recap: Excellence in Academics and Athletics
Academic Prowess: Scholar Athletes
The ultimate achievement is balancing high-level competition with academic dedication. We proudly recognize 33 of our Fall athletes who were named Scholar Athletes! These students maintained a stellar grade point average of 90 or higher, showing true commitment not just to their teams, but to their education as well. Congratulations, Spartans, on setting such a high standard!
Team Highlights & Individual Honors
- Football: Our Spartan Football players, competing with the Chester team, had a remarkable run, earning the title of Class C Champs and making it all the way to the Regionals! Two of our own were honored with MVP awards:
- Jett Gandolfo: Defensive MVP
- Nick Sharp: Offensive MVP
- Soccer: The Section IX Soccer Coaches Association recognized three exceptional Spartans for their talent, selecting them to the C/D All-Star Team:
- Francesca Falone
- Andy Aguilar Cotes
- Mark Rhone
- Volleyball: The Seward Volleyball team had a fantastic season, battling through the competition to reach the Semi-Finals!
Winter Season Kicks Off
The action didn't stop with the changing weather! We were proud to host the annual John Guerra Invitational early this winter, which brought high-caliber basketball competition to our gym.
While Port Jervis took home the tournament title this year, our Spartans showed tremendous skill and sportsmanship. Two of our Varsity players were recognized for their outstanding performance and were named to the All-Tournament Team:
- Grey Whitmore
- Blake Coontz
In the JV Invitational, our program was also recognized, with Chase Coleman earning a spot on the JV All-Tournament Team.
The winter season is just beginning—stay tuned for more exciting updates and come out to support your Spartans!