Athletic Program Philosophy
T.J. Burke
Director of Health Physical Education & Athletics
Email: tjburke@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.
School News
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💜Plainedge Schools participated in P.S. I Love You Day across the entire district on Friday, February 14th. Students and staff wore purple to spread mental health awareness.
💜 This year`s theme "A brighter tomorrow begins today." We encourage everyone to spread love not only to the world and others but, most importantly, to yourself. Remembering that you hold the key to something much greater.
💜Thank you to our Special Education Department for bringing attention to this important day across the entire district!
#plainedge #psily #community #love #valentines #awareness #plainedgestrong #weare #plainedgeproud

Dr.Salina had a great time watching and cheering on our amazing high school wrestling athletes today showcasing their talent and making Plainedge proud alongside their families! If you`re looking for some excitement, head over to Cold Spring Harbor High School today and show your support for our athletes! #WeArePlainedge #plainedgeproud #athletics #wrestling #sport #varsity

What an unforgettable evening last night at the 4th Annual Best Buddies Fashion Show! Students were cheered on by a sold-out crowd of 700+ spectators in the PHS auditorium, and many more watching from home via live stream! The show reminds us all of the power of friendship and community. We celebrated inclusivity, confidence, and the beauty of being ourselves. Thank you to everyone who made this night so special.
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #weare #friendship #bestbuddies #plainedge #united

Charles E. Schwarting students spread so much love today with their Bristal Buddies in a heartwarming Valentine`s Day arts and crafts activity. This fun event was a wonderful part of the students` ongoing service-learning project, bringing creativity, joy, and meaningful connections to everyone involved! The students poured their hearts into the crafts, making this special day memorable for their buddies.❤️
#weareplainedge #bristalbuddies #commuity #learning #education #together #united #friends #pride #weare #plainegepride

A huge congratulations to Dr. Salina for being named New York State Superintendent of the Year by the New York State Association for Computers and Technology in Education! This incredible honor recognizes a Superintendent who has not only embraced technology but has used it in outstanding ways to improve education and student learning experience. Dr. Salina’s innovative approach to integrating technology in the classroom is truly inspiring and sets a high standard for educators across the state.
Yesterday, at the Town of Oyster Bay board meeting, Supervisor Saladino and Town of Oyster Bay board members presented Dr. Salina with a citation in recognition of this remarkable achievement.
#WEAREPLAINEDGE #PLAINEDGEPRIDE #EDUCATION #TECHNOLOGY

𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗗𝗿. 𝗦𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗮, 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀.
I am happy and proud to announce that two of our schools, Eastplain Elementary School and Plainedge High School, were designated 2025 New York State Schools of Character. There are 98 state-level Schools of Character, 5 Districts of Character, and 8 International Schools of Character. Only six schools in New York State were on that list, and two of those were Plainedge schools. Eastplain Elementary School and Plainedge High School now join Plainedge Middle School and John H. West Elementary School in this prestigious recognition. Congratulations to Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School for receiving an honorable mention. We have been recognized for our implementation of a comprehensive approach that “equips and empowers staff to reinforce and model a range of positive core values that shape and form the hearts, minds, and choices of our students.” By prioritizing character development alongside academic success, our schools are shaping well-rounded individuals who will excel in all facets of life.
It was apparent to the State School of Character committee that our “L.E.A.D. for P.R.I.D.E.” core values are deeply embedded in our school’s culture and that our schools are truly a caring community focused not only on academic success but character development for all. It was evident that our schools work together with students, parents, and community members to create strong communities focused on character. The committee highlighted these schools as state exemplars for their practices and strategies for developing good character in our students, emphasizing that the contributions of all stakeholders in our school community are key to the success of all Plainedge students.
Congratulations to our entire school community for your dedicated contributions to both education and character development of our students. Your hard work and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the outstanding character of our students.
#weareplainedge #plainedgepride #together #education #character #lead #pride #plainedge

Dr. Salina stopped by the Plainedge Perk at John H. West Elementary this morning to see their student-run coffee shop in action! This special initiative provides JHW student council and special education students with the chance to build confidence and develop key skills like teamwork, money management, and customer service. We’re incredibly proud of our students and staff for making this project a reality and embodying our school’s core values of character.
#PlainedgePerk #lead #plainedgepride #weare #plainedgeproud #StudentEmpowerment

Last month, our elementary schools received brand-new cafeteria serving lines! 🍽️✨ Students are now enjoying faster, more efficient meal service! Thank you to our school lunch staff for their amazing work every day! #SchoolUpdates #HealthyEating #StudentSuccess #weareplainedge #plainedgepride #plainedgeproud

Happy Lunar New Year! Schools are closed today, Wednesday, January 29, 2025, and will reopen on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Congratulations to our very own, Mr. White who was one of 21 educators from across Long Island to receive the ASSET Bright Light Award. Mr. White is an elementary STEAM Specialist, a high school CTE teacher who teaches college level video production classes, and one half of the team responsible for creating state of the art planetarium experiences for all grades K-8. He is constantly brainstorming unique, amazing technology enhanced experiences for his students which empower them to make a positive contribution to our world. Mr. White’s boundless energy, creativity, positive attitude and collaborative nature constantly inspire our students, staff and community members. Congratulations Mr. White! #WeArePlainedge
