The Pride of Port Chester continues to shine!

The Marching Band earned 1st place at the US Bands State Championships in Lindenhurst, NY, with an impressive score of 83.4. The ensemble also received top honors for Best Percussion, further celebrating the talent and dedication of our student-musicians and staff.

Congratulations to our remarkable student musicians, directors, and staff for this outstanding achievement. Your commitment to excellence and tradition continues to make our community proud!

Dear Ramily,

As we approach the holiday season, it is important to acknowledge that this time of year can bring a mix of emotions, particularly for those in our community facing challenges. While many will celebrate with joy and abundance, we must remember that not every household shares in this experience. Right here in Port Chester, there are families who may struggle during this season and could benefit from our collective support.

If you know of any families in need, I encourage you to reach out to your building principal or our community school coordinators. They can assist in accessing necessities through community resources as well as our in-house school district pantry, which operates out of the middle school and serves our entire district. Our dedicated community school coordinators are also knowledgeable about local supports that can assist families both during the holiday season and throughout the year.

Today, the Superintendent, administrators, building principals, the Director of Guidance, Ms. Allison Fasano, and our Community School Coordinators met to ensure that we continue to collaborate effectively to support families in need. We have attached a list of resources for your information in both English and Spanish.

As we embrace the spirit of the holiday season, let us remember that it is a time to give and care for one another. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us. Wishing you all a fulfilling holiday season.

Warmly,

Dr. Aurelia Henriquez
Superintendent of Schools

Throughout October, our students and staff celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich traditions, vibrant art, rhythmic music, and inspiring spirit that embody Hispanic culture across Port Chester.

From energetic performances to heartfelt reflections, our Rams beautifully showcased the pride, creativity, and sense of unity that make this celebration such a meaningful part of our school community.

Watch the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration video, produced by PCSTV and featuring highlights from across the district.

Dear Ramily,

As you may know, we’ve just concluded Hispanic Heritage Month, and I want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on the incredible talent of our Port Chester High School Mariachi Band, Los Carneros, under the direction of Jonathan Pereira and Melissa Neyer.

The artistry of our Port Chester Mariachis goes far beyond simply performing a genre; it’s a vibrant celebration of our shared humanity. Mariachi music, with its rich history dating back to 19th-century Mexico, has evolved over time, embracing a variety of influences while preserving its core essence. Mariachi isn’t just entertainment; it’s a powerful expression of identity, community, and tradition. Through its music, we are reminded of resilience, cultural pride, and the timeless art of storytelling.

If you had the privilege of attending the Honor Society Induction Ceremony at Port Chester High School on Wednesday night, you were treated to the magical sounds of our talented musicians. Their performance was nothing short of inspiring, wrapping us in the beautiful and powerful rhythms that mariachi brings. Personally, every time I hear their music, I’m transported back to my childhood, dancing around the house with my Aunt Aurelia, listening to Vicente Fernández. Those moments were filled with laughter, joy, and a deep appreciation for music that transcends time and place.

Click here to enjoy a glimpse of one of Los Carneros’ recent performances.

Mariachi music speaks to us all, bridging cultural and generational gaps. Its rich history and powerful sounds remind us of our shared experiences, and of the connections we create through art.

As we celebrate this vibrant expression of culture, let us remember that, as Maya Angelou so wisely said, “We are more alike, my friends, than we are unalike.” Whether you’re a native Spanish speaker or not, whether you come from Latino heritage or not, we all benefit from supporting each other and learning from one another’s stories. A rising tide lifts all boats.

¡Viva los mariachis!

Warmly,

Dr. Aurelia Henriquez
Superintendent of Schools

Now in its second year, the Smart Scholars program is reshaping the Port Chester High School experience, with 99 students and counting. Through a grant-funded partnership with Westchester Community College (WCC), eligible students can earn up to 24 transferable college credits at no cost while fulfilling high school requirements. These credits are recognized by a wide range of post-secondary institutions across the country.

Courses are co-taught by PCHS teachers and WCC adjunct professors, and the dual-enrollment model awards both high school and college credit for the same class, saving families time and money on a future degree. These opportunities aren’t limited to Smart Scholars participants; any PCHS student can enroll in a college-credit course.

“We’ve expanded supports to help students thrive,” said Assistant Principal and Smart Scholars Coordinator Diantha Barone. “In our second year, my focus is on growth, offerings, enrollment, supports, opportunities, and communication. Most importantly, I’m inspired by each student’s personal growth as they discover who they are and how they can continue to develop their skills and knowledge.”

Students receive mentoring from PCHS staff and tutoring through the Carver Center, helping them strengthen study strategies, set goals, and build college-ready habits. The program’s course offerings are growing, too, with new WCC classes in the arts and technology, including Orchestra Ensemble (MUSIC 132), Band Ensemble (MUSIC 132), Chorus 1/2 (MUSIC 130), Introduction to Theatre (THEATRE 101), and Computer Hardware (CIS 130). The district also continues its partnership with Manhattanville College to expand advanced coursework across subjects.

“As Deputy Superintendent, I’m proud that Smart Scholars and our arts dual-enrollment options give PCHS students a real head start,” said Dr. Colleen Carroll. “Through these partnerships with Westchester Community College and Manhattanville, we’re leading the way as NYSED moves toward a statewide dual-enrollment policy. These programs raise high school graduation rates, boost college enrollment, and increase degree completion, and our students are feeling that momentum.”

Students like AJ Alvarez and Antonia Rieke, both in Grade 10, say Smart Scholars is helping them grow academically and personally.

“Smart Scholars has helped me become the best student I can be,” AJ shared. “With all the help from staff at school and at Carver Center, I’ve learned to be responsible and respectful. They even helped me reach my athletic goals with open gym and other great opportunities.”

Antonia added, “Smart Scholars is more than just earning college credit; it’s a pathway to my future. Through our meetings, workshops, and field trips, I’ve learned more about my interests and what I want to do with my life. It’s helped me feel more secure in who I am and who I’ll become.”

The learning continues beyond the school day. Summer 2025 Carver Center workshops will run from July 9 to August 6, focusing on high school readiness, organization, wellness, and time management. Sessions for incoming ninth graders will be held on Wednesdays from 3:00 to 4:00 PM, and for incoming tenth graders on Wednesdays from 2:00 to 3:00 PM.

During the 2025–26 school year, in-person sessions will continue quarterly:
- Cohort 2 (Grade 9): September 9 and October 7; November 18 and December 9; February 10 and March 12 (Career Exploration Night, 6:00 to 7:30 PM); April 14 and May 12.
- Cohort 1 (Grade 10): September 11 and October 9; November 20 and December 11; February 12 and March 12 (Career Exploration Night); April 16 and May 14.

Applications open each spring for current eighth graders preparing to enter ninth grade. Stay tuned for updated information, which will be posted soon on the Port Chester High School website.