The new 2025-2026 school year is here, and Patrick M. Villano School welcomed all new fourth graders with open arms. The fourth grade teachers are Cynthia Doran,Tricia Mancino, Kimberly DellaVolpe, and Kristin Vitale.
“At first it was scary because I didn’t know anything about the school,” Emilia Dibiasio Cedeno said. “Everything was brand new and everything seemed so different, but it didn’t take long to get used to it because people there taught me about the school and made me feel comfortable.”
With a new school, comes new opportunities such as Beginner Band, which is run by Joseph Gibbs. He also helps organize the “O” Show with social worker Amanda Binetti. The “O” Show is a monthly event where students get to share a talent on stage. The first show of the year was September 29. One of the new fourth graders,, had mixed feelings about coming to a brand new school, but school-wide events like the “O” Show help many students feel more comfortable in their new surroundings.
“At first, I felt nervous,” James Touw said. “But now since I’ve been here awhile, I don’t feel nervous anymore. I also like the teachers and the recess options even though there aren’t a lot for fourth graders. Overall, I really like it here.”
Some recess options include basketball, football, box ball, and the gagaball. Gagaball wasn’t available at Memorial School, and it’s very popular among the new fourth graders. Many fourth graders are still figuring out their routine. The reason most fourth graders felt nervous is because Villano is a new experience to them.
“I noticed that Villano is way bigger …” Duke O’Melia said, “… but it’s kind of sad leaving all of my friends that are a grade below.”
There are new hallways, new classrooms, and a new gym, but soon, it becomes less scary once they learn about all the things Villano has to offer.
“There’s a lot more programs, and we are beginning to do a lot more independent work,” Kahofer said. “I like Villano better because there’s a lot more freedom, and I’m excited. There’s lots more things to do, and everybody’s more mature at Villano.”
