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VOL. 61 NO. 37 SEPTEMBER 10 -16, 2026
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A U.S. Fulbright winner is off to teach in Spain Davis learned about the program from one of her professors at SUNY Oneonta. At first, A longtime dream of living she said, she did not think abroad became a reality for becoming a Fulbright scholar Oceanside resident Jessica was attainable for her. But that changed after her Davis, who headed to La Rioja, Spain, to spend the next year first trip to Spain. “Once I went to teaching English as Spain for the first a Fulbright scholar. time, that passion The opportunity for seeing more will allow Davis, 22, of the country, to immerse herself l e a r n i n g m o re, in Spanish culture and just traveling while helping stuand being more dents develop their of a global citizen English skills. j u s t s p a rk e d , ” The Fulbright Davis said. Program was estabSubsequently, lished by the U.S. D av i s a p p l i e d gover nment in through SUNY 1946, after World Oneonta, where War II, with the JESSICA DAVIS she earned a goal of promoting Fulbright scholar bachelor’s degree international Oceanside resident in mathematics understanding and and adolescent peace through educational and cultural exchange. mathematics education, with a Through the program, U.S. minor in Spanish in 2026. “When you first apply, it citizens — including students, teachers, professionals, scien- wasn’t anything like a college tists and artists — receive application, which really surscholarships or grants to study, prised me,” Davis said. “It was conduct research or teach a lengthy process, with a lot of abroad. Citizens of other coun- written statements. I had to tries can also qualify to do the write on a lot of different topsame in the United States. The ics, like the skills that would be program provides 8,000 grants required to embark on a jourannually.
By ABIGAIL GRIECO
agrieco@liherald.com
Sue Grieco/Herald
Back to Hogwarts at the library Youth Services staff members Sarah Campbell, far left, Jen Donato, Hannah Moore, Sarah D’Amico and Ilene Madden celebrated the start of a new school year with the Oceanside Library’s Back to Hogwarts Day on Sept. 1.
OSD staff begins school year in style By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com
More than 1,500 Oceanside School District educators and staff members gathered for the district’s annual Superintendent’s Conference Day, but this year’s return-to-school tradition came with a little extra magic. Held at Oceanside High School on Aug. 31, the day before students returned to classrooms, the conference day was intended to welcome staff back and set an inspirational tone for the 2026-27 school year. The district’s theme this year is “Magic in Every Moment,” a message that was incorporated throughout the day. Superintendent Phyllis Harrington said the event brings together employees from across the district, including teachers, teacher assistants, aides, monitors, clerical
workers and custodial staff. “We’re always so excited to welcome everybody back,” she said. “The goal for me is to welcome everyone, but also to be as motivational and inspirational as we possibly can.” The morning began with a performance by Greg Bennick, a magician, juggler and motivational speaker. Harrington said that Bennick’s presentation featured audience participation while connecting his message to the district’s core values. The district’s philosophy is centered on being “anchored together by purpose, passion and people.” Belonging, relationships and the accomplishments of students and staff are at the heart of the district’s work, Harrington said. The presentation also reinforced this year’s theme: that “magic” can be found in everyday CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Remembering
9/11
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pportunities like this, they exist, if you really set your mind to something. Just keep the faith and be patient.
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