News and Announcements

The Glen Cove City School District is proud to announce a new partnership with Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts, providing five exceptional students with scholarships for the upcoming 2026 summer season. This collaboration underscores the district's commitment to fostering elite artistic development and providing students with world-class opportunities to "lose themselves for the summer and find themselves for a lifetime." Located on 140 acres of woodland in Wheatley Heights, Usdan is a renowned sanctuary for young creatives. This year's scholarship recipients were selected based on their passion, technical skill, and dedication to their respective crafts.

"We are incredibly excited to see our students immerse themselves in such a prestigious creative community," said Bryce Klatsky, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology. "These five individuals represent the heart of our arts program. They are diverse, driven, and immensely talented."

FAME GC helped make this partnership possible. The organization introduced Usdan Summer Camp to the Glen Cove City School District and opened the door to a wider conversation about arts access for local students. FAME GC works to grow arts opportunities across the community. This collaboration reflects that mission. It connects young artists from the North Shore with an experience that can shape the way they see themselves and their work.

Meet the 2026 Usdan Scholars

 

Giorgina Dondero, Grade 10

Giorgina is an exceptionally talented and dedicated young artist whose passion for the visual arts is evident in everything she creates. Over the past year, she has demonstrated remarkable artistic growth, continually expanding her skills across a variety of mediums while developing a strong and unique creative voice.  – LeeAnn Palazzo, Art Teacher

 

 

 

 

Nahla Gomez, Grade 10

“Nahla is truly an inspiration to all! Through her artistic talents, positive attitude, and willingness to challenge herself both academically and artistically, she approaches everything she does with determination and I am so proud of her" – Maria Verni, Art Teacher

 

 

 

 

Anthony Dahne, Grade 8

“Anthony Dahne has demonstrated tremendous growth as a trombone player throughout his middle school band experience, consistently working to refine his technique, musicianship, and confidence. He has spent significant time developing a rich, resonant tone and improving his slide precision, which has been vital to the ensemble's overall sound quality. Beyond his individual progress, Anthony's leadership in the low brass section is exemplary; he often takes the initiative to help younger players navigate difficult passages. As an 8th-grade leader, he has set a positive example for his peers through his dedication, maturity, and willingness to support others, ensuring a legacy of excellence and camaraderie within the band program.” – Keith Schmit, Band Director

 

 

 

Sophia Penafiel, Grade 8

“Sophia is an outstanding young musician who performs with great technique and expression.  Her dedication, musical maturity, and beautiful tone make her a truly exceptional young cellist." – Chris Lippe, Orchestra Director

 

 

 

 

 

Ariadna Alvarez, Grade 8

"Ariadna has demonstrated remarkable growth on the violin in just one year, progressing from a beginner to one of the orchestra's emerging leaders.  Her dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm for music have made her an invaluable member of the ensemble." – Chris Lippe, Orchestra Director

 

 

 

 

 

The Glen Cove City School District is dedicated to providing a comprehensive, high-quality education that empowers every student to reach their full potential. With a strong emphasis on the arts, the district continues to receive national recognition for its music and visual arts programs.

Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts is the nation’s preeminent not-for-profit summer arts day camp. For over 50 years, it has invited students in grades K-12 to experience the transformative power of the arts in a unique, nature-integrated environment.