Thursday, October 1, 2026
The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District marked a milestone on Friday, celebrating the completion of its 21st Century Capital Improvement Bond Project with a grand opening ceremony at James H. Vernon Elementary School.
The $29 million initiative touched every corner of the district. At Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School, a new pre-K wing now provides dedicated space for the district’s youngest learners. Oyster Bay High School received multiple new facilities, including an innovation lab and broadcasting studio, along with a modernized entrance façade and new turf field.
Vernon School saw perhaps the most extensive renovations, featuring a state-of-the-art music wing with two spacious orchestra and band rooms complemented by several smaller practice classrooms. The school also gained a new athletic center and a completely re-imagined cafeteria, along with various smaller improvements including an updated playground.
The entire project came in approximately $2.5 million under budget – representing roughly eight percent in savings from the initial projected cost.
The Vernon School celebration brought together district leadership and the wider community in the new athletic complex. Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz attended the event and presented the district with a special citation in recognition of the achievement.
The evening showcased the talents that will flourish in these new spaces. The cast of Vernon’s upcoming production of “Matilda” sang a spirited performance of “Revolting Children,” while student representative Ava Fishberger shared her classmates’ enthusiasm for the enhanced facilities.
Following the formal presentations, Superintendent Francesco Ianni and Board of Education President Nancy Castrogiovanni joined Vernon Principal Anastasia Smith in cutting the ceremonial ribbon, then led attendees on a comprehensive tour of the renovated facilities.
Guests entering the newly renovated cafeteria witnessed a live broadcast by Bay News Now, Oyster Bay High School’s student news team. With reporters stationed in the athletic complex and music wing, anchors in the cafeteria, and a full technical crew managing the production, the students demonstrated professional-level broadcast journalism.
The evening concluded in the new music wing, where attendees were treated to moving performances by the Vernon band and orchestra under the direction of the school’s music faculty.
