The Copiague community came out in full force to celebrate the district’s homecoming on Oct. 16. Kicking off with spirit week activities and a pep rally at the high school on Friday, students and staff were beaming with school pride in the days leading up to the big game.

Gathering for the parade at Great Neck Road Elementary School, school and community organizations came together to march to Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School. Members of the homecoming court marched together alongside community and school organizations including the Susan E. Wiley student council and students from Copiague Middle School and Great Neck Road, Deauville Gardens East and Deauville Gardens West elementary schools.

The freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes showed off their creativity with different superhero-themed floats. The freshman class took home the first place win for their real-life superhero design. Back at Walter G. O’Connell High School, the Copiague Eagles took the field against the Newfield Wolverines. Despite their best efforts, the Eagles couldn’t come out with the homecoming win.

The varsity cheerleaders and step team entertained the crowds during the halftime show. The homecoming court from each grade – including senior royalty Larisa Gutierrez and Johnell Hankerson – were formally announced  and recognized in front of the Eagle’s Nest.

Later that evening, the district held its annual Hall of Achievement induction ceremony, recognizing eight alumni who have made positive contributions to both their community and school district. This year’s inductees were: Brenda Bryant, Class of 1980; Michael Hodgson, Class of 1979; Henry Jackson Jr., Class of 2007; Dominick Nuzzi, Class of 1992; Christopher O’Connell, Class of 1972; Dr. Jessica Royce, Class of 2009; Dennis Scully Jr., Class of 1989; and Dr. Ewa Stelmach, Class of 2005.