Flight of the Firebirds: A Kellenberg Memorial Podcast

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, physics teacher and EMT program moderator Mr. Paul Ditrano explores Kellenberg Memorial’s 15-year partnership with the Nassau County EMS Academy and the impact of its student EMT training program. He is joined by seniors Caroline Davide ’26 and Rima Courgi ’26, along with alumna Erin Moore-Salomone ’13, who now works as a cardiothoracic ICU nurse at Northwell Health and recently completed Hofstra University’s Doctor of Nurse Practitioner program. Together, they reflect on how EMT training served as a gateway into medicine and shaped their academic and professional paths. They discuss the value of teamwork, hands-on clinical skills beyond the classroom, and building confidence in patient interaction, communication, and vital signs assessment. The conversation highlights immersive scenario-based training, a renewed appreciation for the men and women who serve our communities, and the value of this unique, hands-on experience being afforded at the high school level. 

This episode of Flight of the Firebirds celebrates a year of dedication, curiosity, and innovation for twenty of Kellenberg Memorial’s standout 8th graders. These students pioneered the Latin School’s first-ever Aquinas Program, an experience blending research, hands-on learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Hosted by Mr. James Walsh, director of Latin School admissions and Aquinas Program moderator, the episode features insights from students who helped to bring the program to life: Victoria Matassa and Connell Faver of Team Acutis, and Kayla Kennedy and Samantha Vona of Team Frassati. Together, they take listeners behind the scenes of developing research questions, conducting in-depth studies, and presenting their findings at the Aquinas Expo, where they competed alongside 26 other Catholic schools. In addition to the recognition they received there, Team Frassati earned an Honorable Mention for Creativity, while Team Acutis won the award for Most Well-Researched Project. The students highlight the valuable lessons in teamwork, leadership, and public speaking that will serve them and the school beyond the program.

This special bilingual episode of Flight of the Firebirds brings listeners into the experience of language learning at Kellenberg Memorial. Hosted by advanced Spanish teacher Mrs. Susan Borruso, the episode features fellow advanced Spanish teacher Mrs. Lidia Marten and students Gabriel Garo ’27, Melanie Argueta ’27, and Kyara Diaz ’26. Together, they reflect on the value of challenging themselves in advanced language classes and the importance of meaningful connections through language. As the conversation moves between English and Spanish, our students share how honing their skills has strengthened their confidence, expanded their perspectives, and prepared them for future academic and professional success. Mrs. Borruso and Mrs. Marten also highlight how Kellenberg’s language program extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing real-world experiences and cultural immersion opportunities that allow students not only to learn a language, but to truly live it.

In this special episode of Flight of the Firebirds, religion teacher Mr. Shaun Moran '04 sits down with chemistry teacher Mrs. Kacie Anthony '16 and students Riley James '26 and James Hartery '26 to reflect on the journey through Lent and the start of Holy Week—a time when sorrow and celebration begin to intertwine. The group shares their personal Lenten sacrifices and spiritual practices, from giving up daily coffee runs to reducing screen time, while also deepening their prayer lives with the rosary and attending Mass. Together, they explore cherished Palm Sunday traditions, like receiving palms, crafting palm crosses, and preparing spiritually for the Holy Week liturgies. Mrs. Anthony offers a heartfelt insight into her family’s faith journey as her husband, raised Lutheran, prepares for his conversion to Catholicism at the Easter Vigil. The conversation helps us navigate the transition from preparation to welcome, offering a powerful reminder to carry the joy of the Resurrection throughout the year.

This episode of Flight of the Firebirds highlights the transformation of the St. Sebastian Hall weight room at Kellenberg Memorial. Host Sophia Venturino ’26 is joined by teacher and coach Chris Alfalla, strength and football coach Cole Neuendorf, sophomore Michael Cotto, and junior Veronica Braut to discuss how the newly redesigned space is helping build a stronger Kellenberg student body.

Guests reflect on the history and evolution of the now college-level facility, which allows multiple teams and students to train efficiently while fostering leadership, discipline, and camaraderie. The conversation also explores how the upgraded space helps students grow in confidence, balance academics and athletics, and pursue future goals. In Kellenberg’s mission to educate the whole person, the new St. Sebastian Hall stands as another cutting-edge resource that will benefit Firebirds for years to come.

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, join Varsity cheer coach Mrs. Kelly Meisse, Varsity dance coach Miss Ashley Forbes, Varsity dancer Peyton Smith, and Varsity cheerleaders Olivia D’Angelo and Charlotte Kearns as they reflect on their incredible Nationals experience in Florida. The teams discuss the grit, teamwork, school spirit, and faith that helped them thrive in the competition.

The athletes and coaches also share memorable bonding moments, the power of prayer, and how their school motto—“one heart, one mind”—guided them throughout this successful journey. The dance team placed sixth in the nation for team performance, the second-highest placement in school history, while the cheer team advanced to the semifinals in the Small Varsity Division I division, where they delivered a nearly flawless routine.

The conversation captures the pride of being a Firebird and the honor of representing Kellenberg Memorial on the national stage.

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mrs. Castelli, head coach of the Kellenberg Memorial High School Science Olympiad team, joins members of her New York State–bound squad to discuss the program and the excitement surrounding their recent qualification. Seniors Zachary Corallo and Lauren Reyes, along with junior Conor Stanton, take listeners inside the rigorous preparation required for Science Olympiad competitions, while also reflecting on the camaraderie and personal growth fostered along the way. Their accomplishments stand as a shining example of patience, perseverance, and what is possible when bright minds unite with a shared purpose.

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mr. John Benintendi, Assistant Principal for Activities at Kellenberg Memorial, leads a conversation centered on the school’s service and leadership clubs. Joined by Mrs. Mia Delbrune and Dr. Val Serpe, moderators of the SMART Program and the Service Immersion Club, the discussion highlights meaningful service opportunities and their lasting impact on students. Seniors Shane Anelante and Isabel Placide share personal reflections on how involvement in these organizations has strengthened their spiritual life and influenced their future aspirations. The conversation served as a powerful testament to the many ways Kellenberg Memorial puts faith into action.

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Fr. Tom Cardone, S.M., sits down with Brother Michael McAward, S.M., and Brother Roger Poletti, S.M., on the feast of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. Together, they explore the mission of the Marianists and reflect on influential figures such as Father Philip Eichner and Brother Joseph C. Fox.

Brother Michael and Brother Roger share their personal journeys to the Society of Mary—shaped by early family and community support, a deep admiration for the Marianist way of life, and pivotal moments that affirmed their callings. The conversation traces the founding and growth of Kellenberg Memorial, its lasting impact on Long Island, and the spirit that defines a Marianist education.

With joy and gratitude, they reflect on the lives and legacies that continue to inspire the hearts and minds of our school community.

In this episode of Flight of the Firebirds, Mr. Christopher Kahn, the Latin School’s technology teacher, explores how technology is being used to enhance, not replace, the core values and lessons of a Kellenberg Memorial education. Joined by eighth grade students Samantha Vona, Reilly Toner, and Brandon Black, the conversation highlights how interactive tools, digital projects, and responsible tech use are helping students think critically and prepare for the future.

They discuss cross-curriculum collaboration, student responsibilities in the digital age, and how technology can help us learn with purpose and intention. When used wisely, technology becomes a bridge between tradition and innovation, forming Firebirds ready to engage and contribute to this ever-changing world.