Athletic Program Philosophy
Brian Sacks
Director of Health Physical Education & Athletics
Email: brian.sacks@plainedgeschools.org
Phone: (516) 992-7475
Middle School Program
The philosophy of middle school athletics is to maximize participation, have fun, and learn the fundamentals of the sport in a developmental setting. Each participant will be given equal opportunities to participate in both practices and games to develop those skills necessary for the sport. However, if the student-athlete is not developing to the satisfaction of the coach, then equal participation might cause a safety situation. This equal participation is also contingent upon attendance, behavior, and effort during practice sessions and games. The maximum number of athletes will be kept on the rosters (generally 10-25 athletes per coach, depending on sport). The procedure of reducing student-athletes in not desirable. However, if the number of students trying out for a team creates a situation that is difficult to manage, poses a safety issue, or is problematic because of faculty or facility considerations, reducing team size may be necessary.
*Middle school athletic teams are reserved for students in grades 7 and 8*
Junior Varsity Program
The junior varsity level is intended for those who display the potential for continued development into productive varsity-level performers. Although team membership varies according to the structure of each program, sophomores and freshmen occupy the majority of roster positions. In certain situations, juniors, freshmen, and a maximum of exceptional 8th-grade student-athletics may be included on a junior varsity roster.
The realization that practice sessions are important is a premise that is vital to a successful junior varsity team and player. For all team members, meaningful contest participation will exist over the course of a season. However, a specified amount of playing time is never guaranteed. Participants at this level are preparing themselves for the same six-day-a-week commitment that is expected at the varsity level. With the goal of becoming a varsity athlete clearly in sight, students participating at this level are expected to demonstrate a high degree of dedication and commitment.
Varsity Program
Varsity competition is the culmination of each sports program. Seniors and juniors generally make up the majority of the roster.
Squad size at the varsity level is limited. The number of participants on any given team is a function of those needed to conduct an effective and meaningful practice and to play the contest. While contest participation over the course of a season is desirable, a specified amount of playing time at the varsity level is never guaranteed.
A sound attitude and advanced level of skill are prerequisites for a position on a varsity team, as is the realization that a varsity sport requires a six-day-a-week commitment. This commitment is often extended into vacation periods for all sports seasons. While contests and practices are rarely held on holidays and Sundays, they sometimes may be scheduled during school vacation periods.
The varsity coach is the leader of that sport’s program and determines the system of instruction and strategy for that program.
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Congratulations to the @pft11758 for celebrating the 27th Annual "We Make a Difference Awards Ceremony" last week!
It was truly an inspiring evening leaving everyone who had the opportunity to attend feeling the same sense of pride and community spirit. Nearly 185 students were recognized for demonstrating qualities such as empathy, generosity, kindness, and community spirit.
Thank you to the Plainedge High School Jazz Choir under the direction of Peter Lakes, whose music added an uplifting energy to the night.
Thank you to Erin Lehane and Elyssa Dove for helping coordinate this event with extraordinary commitment, creativity, and passion, which were reflected in every detail.
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community #plainedgeproud
Welcome to our Student Robot Connection event! 🤖🌎
Students explored creativity, teamwork, and technology through hands-on robotics and Earth Day inspired activities.
Students rotated through five interactive stations that combined coding, problem-solving, and environmental awareness — all while practicing our P.R.I.D.E. core values: Positivity, Respect, Inclusivity, Dedication, and Empowered learning.
🎳 Strike Out Pollution
Students coded Dash robots to knock down “pollution” pins, building coding skills while learning the importance of protecting our environment.
🎨🖌 3Doodler Earth Day Art
Creativity came to life as students designed and built their own Earth Day creations in 3D using 3Doodler pens.
🌌 Planetarium Experience
Students explored space, learned about exploration, and discovered how innovation today shapes the future.
🌍 Indi Earth Challenge
Using color-coded mats, students programmed Indi robots to navigate to Earth Day images, strengthening sequencing and problem-solving skills.
🗺️ Ozobot – Our Corner of the World
Students created coded paths with markers, guiding Ozobots on journeys around the world while combining geography, creativity, and coding.
Throughout the day, teams tracked how they demonstrated P.R.I.D.E. values using tally cards, reflecting on teamwork, respect, and positivity at every station.
Thank you for joining us for a day of innovation, collaboration, and discovery! #weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community #education
First, thank you to all of our students for your cooperation and flexibility today. Your maturity, respect, and character truly reflect the strength of our school community.
As PSEG continues working to resolve the issue, classes will be held remotely tomorrow, Friday, April 24, 2026. From 7:25–9:25 a.m., please use this time to complete any work impacted by today’s outage. At 9:25 a.m., log into your first period using the Google Meet link in Google Classroom.
Students will then follow their regular schedule for the remainder of the day. Additional information regarding BOCES, after-school activities, and athletics will be shared soon.
There will be limited access to the building during regular school hours for anyone who needs to retrieve materials. Please use the main entrance, where staff will assist you.
For more information, please visit the High School ParentSquare post. https://bit.ly/PHS_ParentSquare
Thank you again for your patience and adaptability.
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community#plainedgehighschool
Congratulations to the Charles E. Schwarting Student Council for being recognized with @thenaesp 2026 Student Council Excellence Award! 🌟
Their community service initiative, Help the Pet Shelters, made a meaningful impact by supporting local animal shelters through a school wide pet supply drive. Students, staff, and families came together to collect essential items including food, blankets, toys, and cleaning supplies to help care for animals awaiting adoption. 🐾
Beyond the donations, this project helped raise awareness about the ongoing needs of shelters while fostering compassion, responsibility, and a strong sense of community service among students.
Learn More here: https://bit.ly/NAESP-SCHWARTING
#WEAREPLAINEDGE #PLAINEDGEPRIDE #COMMUNITY #EDUCATION #WEARE #STUDENTCOUNCIL #GIVEBACK
Who knew lunch could come with so many life lessons? 🍽️💙
Charles E. Schwarting students visited our Bristal buddies at @thebristal for a fun filled afternoon of great conversations, shared stories, and plenty of smiles.
#weareplainedge #community #servicelearning #education #plainedge #weare #plainedgeproud
Welcome to Plainedge,
Dr.Christopher R. Zublionis!
Board of Education President Joseph Beyrouty and Vice President Michael Morrisey welcomed Dr. Zublionis as the new Superintendent of Plainedge Public Schools.
Dr. Zublionis brings nearly three decades of experience in education and currently serves as Superintendent of the North Shore Central School District. Throughout his career, he has served as a social studies teacher, coach, building principal, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and Superintendent, leading initiatives focused on instructional improvement, professional learning, and student support systems.
We are excited to welcome
Dr. Zublionis to the Plainedge community and look forward to his leadership as we continue to support student success and districtwide excellence.
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community #education #welcome
A message to the Plainedge Community from the Plainedge Board of Education announcing the new Superintendent of the Plainedge Public Schools
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community #education
Great collaboration in action! Molloy University students met with our Plainedge educators through our Teacher Center, creating a valuable opportunity to share ideas, collaborate, and learn from one another. We appreciate the meaningful conversations and partnerships that support continued growth for both future and current educators. #weareplainedge #plainedgepride #community #education #plainedgeproud
The CSI Competition brought together teams from Plainedge and Bethpage for a hands-on forensic investigation. Students processed crime scenes, analyzed evidence, and questioned suspects during this year’s Old West themed case. After presenting their final findings, top teams earned honors and special recognitions. An engaging, immersive experience enjoyed by all!
Special Thank you to Maureen Chiolo, Forensic Club Advisor and PHS teacher for hard work and dedication to creating such an amazing event for our students!
#weareplainedge #weare #plainedgepride #community #education #learning #csi #immersive #plainedgeproud
Congratulations to Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School for being recognized as a 2026 New York State and National School of Character!
#congratulation #weare #community #education #plainedgepride #plainedgeproud

