How should diversity and race be handled in the classroom? It’s a question sparking debate in the Smithtown Central School District. The issue has boiled over into the school board election. Newsday's Chelsea Irizarry reports. 


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Smithtown school district equity efforts amid accusations of anti-white bias

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Smithtown school district defends equity efforts amid accusations of anti-white bias

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The best friends, who are known at South Side High School as the "Dynamic Duo," are among Newsday's 2026 Extraordinary Seniors.

'They are both perfection in their own right, but together they are extraordinary'

Nick Cannon, host of the Wild 'N Out Live show at Barclays Center, visited Roosevelt High School on Friday.

'Excited about entertainment'

12-year-old Cesar Albarracin Guncay, a 6th grader in Sag Harbor, died during a rafting field trip in the Poconos after the raft overturned in the river.

'Cesar was a cherished member of our school family'

NewsdayTV's Macy Egeland speaks to actor Gary Sinise about the Wantagh Union Free School District partnering with his foundation to raise money for field trips to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, as well as a commemorative 9/11 statue in front of Wantagh High School.

'To make sure those students never forget'

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Hempstead school officials have alleged that the district clerk in charge of the election conspired to keep incumbent Victor Pratt in office.

DA investigates alleged fraud in LI school trustee election

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Parents who want to open an account must navigate multiple websites and a mobile app.

Here's a step-by-step guide to signing up for Trump Accounts

A spokesman said students would not receive certificates needed for early driver's licenses because "aspects of the program were not confirmed to be compliant with state regulations."

Parents cry foul after school cancels driver's education course

At his graduation Friday night, the accomplishment had just started to sink in for Bay Shore High senior Corey Faines. "I think I'm just realizing how big of an achievement it is," he said.

From pre-K to high school graduation, this LI student has never missed a day of school

Ivanna Moreno, 24, of Brentwood, is believed to be one of only two SCCC students in this year's graduating class to be accepted to an Ivy League college.

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There will be fewer repayment options for many borrowers and new loan limits for parents, graduate students, part-time students and others.

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The school board voted 4-0 to approve the retirements of the three longtime assistant superintendents.

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Sara Lopez Garcia recorded an address to her class from her native Colombia. NewsdayTV's Andrew Ehinger reports.

'Never underestimate your strength'

Chaminade twins John and Joseph Gomes were named valedictorian and salutatorian, a first for the all-boys Catholic school in Mineloa.

Twins make val and sal history

Jesse Findling, of Massapequa Park, made a stop at his alma mater on Monday. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'He just followed his dream'

A federal judge approved an agreement this week to phase out the Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE, Plan. The move could affect millions of borrowers. Newsday's experts break it down.

'A lot of uncertainty'

The East Meadow school district is asking taxpayers to vote yes on a $71.5 million capital improvement bond. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

'It's good for the school district'

Dental professor Ira B. Lamster said the break with Stony Brook University was unrelated to the funding he received from Epstein. Newsday investigative reporter Joshua Solomon has more.

$100G grant from Epstein

A new report says the risks of AI in education are greater than the benefits. NewsdayTV spoke with a panel of experts on the topic.

A look at the risks of AI in education

It's been 40 years since the space shuttle Challenger disaster. Long Islanders remember where they were on Jan. 28, 1986.

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Under Gov. Kathy Hochul's budget proposal, Long Island districts would see a 3.8% increase in state aid. However, some districts would see modest decreases. NewsdayTV's Virginia Huie reports.

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Jericho senior Ashka Shah on Wednesday was named a Regeneron Science Talent Search finalist for her research into how healthy cell growth systems go awry in cancer. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'Proof that anyone can do anything'

Gov. Hochul unveiled plans for her state budget proposal, including no new state taxes, a 4.3% increase in school aid and no taxes on tips. NewsdayTV political analyst Joye Brown has more.

'You can make historic investments'

Each semifinalist will receive $2,000 and their school will receive a matching amount. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

'I'm ecstatic'

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Newsday food writer Erica Marcus explores the new farmers market at Station Yards in Ronkonkoma.

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Two sharks were spotted off Long Island shores Thursday, at Lido Beach and Long Beach. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

Sharks spotted off shores of two LI beaches 

Nassau police officials on Wednesday warned of the serious dangers associated with illegal fireworks. NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa reports.

Residents urged to watch professionals only

NewsdayTV's Elisa DiStefano visits L'Etoile in Oyster Bay. The French restaurant is in the building that used to be Snouder's Drug Store.

Historic LI building home to new French restaurant

NewsdayTV's Doug Geed visits a pick-your-own berry and flower farm in Mattituck, Patty's Berries and Bunches.

Out East: Pick-your-own berry farm celebrating 50 years

NewsdayTV's Ken Buffa visits Signorama in Huntington Station.

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According to investigators, Alison Winter was practicing as a clinical social worker without a license between November 2018 and May 2024. NewsdayTV's Shari Einhorn has more.

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Newsday travel writer Carissa Kellman takes the High Line to Chelsea Market and Pier 57.

Exploring NYC's High Line

All of the violations, records stipulate, were corrected and each of the park's rides passed inspection during a subsequent visit. Newsday reporter Robert Brodsky has more.

Adventureland had 65 safety violations since 2023, state records show

As we head into summer, NewsdayTV meteorologist Geoff Bansen looks back at Long Island's hurricane history and prospects for the 2026 season.

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Newsday is highlighting the passionate, engaging and innovative educators of Long Island with its Teacher Spotlight feature.

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Residents in LI's more than 120 school districts weighed in on board candidates, budgets and propositions. See how your district voted. For additional information, read our article here.

2026 School Vote

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