Imagine a time capsule buried in 1955. That is the year Valley Stream South High School was established. It stands as a pillar of education in South Valley Stream. This combined junior and senior high school serves grades seven through twelve.
Valley Stream South High School is one of three high schools in the Valley Stream Central High School District. It shares the distinction of being a combined junior-senior high school with one other school in the district. Students here mainly come from local elementary schools. These include William L Buck Elementary School and Robert W Carbonaro Elementary School. Locals often refer to Valley Stream South High School simply as South.
Valley Stream South High School’s story is intertwined with that of North High School. Both schools were built in 1955. They shared similar architecture designed by Frederic P Wiedersum Associates. A friendly rivalry marked their sporting events.
Valley Stream South High School has a rich history. J James Bergen served as the first principal from 1955 to 1977. He had a past as a language teacher and assistant principal at Central High School. Interestingly he was also a part-time scout for the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. Subsequent principals include Dr Steven R Goldberg Ms Christine J Cutting Dr Stephen C Lando and Ms Maureen Henry.
The school’s colors are red and white. Its mascot is the falcon. The falcon symbolizes the school’s spirit. Valley Stream South High School’s architecture was originally a cube shape. A landscaped courtyard once sat in the center.
Valley Stream South High School is known for its diversity. It ranks among the most diverse public high schools in New York. In 2021 Niche ranked it 9th most diverse in the state. It was also ranked 5th most diverse outside of New York City.
Newsweek magazine has recognized Valley Stream South High School. It was consistently ranked among the top high schools in America until 2012. In April 2014 it was the 16th best public high school on Long Island.
The Falcon Report is a unique feature of Valley Stream South High School. This student-made weekly TV news report has been broadcast since 2002. The entire school pauses for the broadcast. It covers news student commercials weather and sports.
Several notable alumni have walked these halls. Lon Babby became president of the Phoenix Suns. Deborah Oppenheimer won an Academy Award. Gary Portnoy sang the Cheers theme song. Larry Miller was a comedian and actor. Jesse David Fox is a journalist and podcast host.
Valley Stream South High School continues to evolve. It adapts to meet the needs of its students. It remains a vital part of the South Valley Stream community. The school’s commitment to education and diversity shapes future generations.