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Schools, Offices Closed Monday, June 20, in Observance of Juneteenth

The City School District of New Rochelle will be closed on Monday, June 20, in observance of Juneteenth, which officially became a federal holiday last year. June 19, 2022, marks the 157th anniversary of June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed the last enslaved people that they were emancipated by General Order No. 3. The news came more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Please see the Columbus Elementary School story and an announcement about Sunday’s Juneteenth celebration at City Hall, both further below.

Milestones and Memories for Fifth-Graders:

Well Done, Graduates!

This week's Newsletter, with the three stories just below, begins special coverage of graduation and moving-up ceremonies. Additional coverage of upcoming events (please see the schedule further below) will be provided in next Thursday's Newsletter, the final edition for this school year. 

Jefferson: 84 Take Next Step to Middle School

Students, teachers, and families were buzzing with excitement June 10 as Jefferson Elementary School held its Fifth-Grade Graduation, which included 84 students from six classes. Students spoke throughout the ceremony in English, Spanish, and Italian. 

Students entered the auditorium holding red and white balloons and sang “Verge” by Owl City, featuring Aloe Blacc. Balloons were released into the air as smiles and tears of joy spread throughout the room, showing just how powerful the moment was for all. Speakers included Dr. Olivine Roberts, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Board of Education member Katie Castellano Minaya, and Principal Kimmerly Nieves (third photo). All shared inspiring messages with students and families.

Before students graduated, several retirees and staff members were recognized for their years of service. Retirees included Sloane Occhiuto, a classroom teacher for 35 years; Frayda Grossbach, a 34-year special education teacher, and Roslyn Claytor, Jefferson’s librarian. Mary Beth Kettner, Jefferson’s secretary for 16 years, and Head Custodian Jimmy Benge, will bid farewell to Jefferson as well. 

Yuderlin Santana, a fifth-grade student in Victoria Cooke’s class, said, “This past school year has been a wonderful experience. Even with the challenges of COVID, teachers and students worked hard to achieve their goals while having fun through the process.”

Trinity: Smiles, Tears, Cheers as Students Chart New Course

Next step: Sixth grade.

That’s the important progression Trinity Elementary School fifth-graders experienced Wednesday when they were celebrated during a Moving-Up Ceremony. Parents, families, teachers, and staff honored the 128 hard-working students with speeches, and the festivities included graduates performing and signing singer Natasha Bedingfield’s “Unwritten.” Principal Michael Hilderbrand was joined by former Trinity principal and current Mahopac Schools Superintendent Anthony DiCarlo, as well as former physical education teacher and current entrepreneur Troy Millings. Each encouraged students to forge their unique paths and to be lifelong learners. Students were presented with awards for citizenship, effort, academic growth, and academic excellence. Nurse Nora Wolloch and Suellen O’Malley were honored for their retirements with awards in their names.

On Tuesday, 143 kindergarten students were in the spotlight during their Moving-Up Ceremony, which included a processional to “Pomp and Circumstance,” singing, photographs, and a speech from Hilderbrand. He reminded students and families that lessons learned in kindergarten are applicable during all stages of life. A special moment took place when flowers were presented to Carol Mazzella for her retirement. One kindergartener summed up the entire ceremony’s special vibe by saying, “I’m so excited! We are graduating and starting first grade!” 

Ward: Deep Pride as 159 Students Move Up

William B. Ward Elementary School’s Moving-Up ceremonies, held over two days, were memorable experiences for 159 fifth-graders and their families.

“I’m proud of the entire staff, students, and families at Ward for overcoming the obstacles that we faced the last couple of years,” said Principal Franco Miele.

Student speakers from each class – Brandon Brucaj, Jessica Ann Byrne, Hailey Terez Hanney, Ademola Lapdao Jr., Camila Minaya, Melanny Oliveros-Novoa, Chloe Rodriguez, George Angel Saldana, and Saul Sandoval – welcomed attendees in English and Spanish. Teachers spoke about being kind, students being the best version of themselves, believing in themselves and making a difference in the world. Hayden Turnbull, a student in Matthew Reid’s class, said, “Today was great, but a part of me is sad because that means my time at Ward is almost over!”

Students took pictures in front of the new murals by New Rochelle artist Daniel Henderson. The back of the building was decorated beautifully, and the setting was complemented with instrumentals performed by music teacher Robert Flanz. The fifth-grade team thanks all Ward staff members, especially the custodians and PTA, for their assistance, as well as additional speakers Superintendent Jonathan Raymond, Board of Education members Margaret Bavosa and Katie Castellano Minaya, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Olivine Roberts, Executive Director for Educational Leadership and Early Learning Dr. Nicolas Cracco, Assistant Principals Kim Peluso and Rudelina Murray, and retired Ward teacher Nat Harris. 

High School Clarinet Player Cecilia Delgadillo

Accepted into Prestigious Julliard School Music Program

Congratulations to New Rochelle High School junior Cecilia Delgadillo, who has been accepted into the elite Julliard School’s Music Advancement Program, where she will study music every Saturday during her senior year.

“I’m so grateful for the support of multiple teachers in the New Rochelle district and community,” she said. And indeed, New Rochelle teachers were among the many whose invaluable guidance helped forge her path.

Delgadillo started her musical journey at Jefferson Elementary School when teacher Gary Schwartz taught her to play the recorder in third grade. She then participated in the Songcatchers summer-music program, where she learned about several instruments – including the clarinet.

When Delgadillo returned to Jefferson for fourth grade, she continued clarinet lessons with Dr. Eva Egolf, the band teacher. She continued lessons in Songcatchers’ afterschool music program and played in the band at Isaac E. Young Middle School under band teacher John Thompson. She was named an All County musician during fifth and sixth grade. Later, at New Rochelle High School, Delgadillo was accepted to PAVE, the performing and visual arts program. This year, she scored a perfect 100 at the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Festival with the support and supervision of high school Band Director Mark Cooper and her longtime clarinet mentor, Enid Press.

Three weeks ago, Delgadillo auditioned for the pre-college program at Julliard and was stunned when she was asked to interview. Last Thursday, she was accepted into the program, which is for intermediate and advanced music students from the tristate area who demonstrate a commitment to artistic excellence.

In addition to being a clarinetist, Delgadillo is working toward her private pilot’s license. Her goal is to be an airline pilot and professional musician who plays in the pit at Broadway shows.

National Junior Honor Society

Inducts 77 at Isaac E. Young Middle School

There are 77 new Isaac E. Young Middle School students in the National Junior Honor Society!

The school held its annual induction ceremony on June 8. Principal Dr. Tawanda Robinson and Superintendent Jonathan Raymond, in the third photo, offered opening remarks. Current eighth-grade honor society members Aidan Rodriguez, Alicia Acevedo, Niah Rowe, Makayla Herrera, and Olivia Bongiorni spoke about the Society's Five Pillars. Each student invited inductees Justice Diakite, Lorelei Schmitz, Alexa Flores Moreno, Cesar Hernandez Maldonado, and Ivan Oceguera up to the stage to light honor society candles. Current member Harmony Hopwood led the inductees and the audience in reciting the society oath. Assistant Principal Christopher Francaviglia offered closing remarks. 

The National Junior Honor Society recognizes exceptional middle school students. Each inductee must have demonstrated excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship, and character throughout their middle school years. In addition to demonstrating these exemplary qualities, each student had to maintain a grade-point average of 90 or above for at least six quarters and was required to submit an application. Congratulations to all!

Board of Education Honors Moselhi,

Newly Tenured Educators, and Retirees During Busy Meeting

The New Rochelle Board of Education held a wide-ranging meeting Tuesday night that included hearing impressive reports, honoring a departing Board member, granting tenure to dozens of educators, and honoring school district retirees from both 2021-2022 and 2019-2020.

High School Update: Ninth-grader Luca Lazzarini presented a comprehensive report about recent activities at New Rochelle High School, as well as a summary of the school year overall. He recounted how resilient students coped and learned remotely when the building’s opening was delayed until Nov. 1, 2021 by flood damage from Hurricane Ida. He also detailed upbeat achievements such as awards ceremonies, the Latino Migration exhibit, a Latinx conference, and visits by dancer Misty Copeland and Congressman Jamaal Bowman. “It was amazing to see how seniors persevered, and their hard work did not go unnoticed,” he said.

Honoring Moselhi: Board of Education member Amy Moselhi was honored for her service at the meeting; her distinguished five-year term on the Board ends at the end of June. Moselhi, who has also served as Board President and Vice President, and on numerous committees, brought “profound dedication” and “tireless, conscientious service,” Board President Julia Muggia Ochs said as she presented Moselhi with a commendation. Muggia Ochs praised Moselhi for strengthening the school district’s financial health, overseeing a successful $106 million bond issue to upgrade schools and facilities, and for leading the Board through the onset of the COVID pandemic. Fellow board members praised Moselhi’s diligence, service, and dedication. Moselhi offered deep gratitude, thanking her fellow Board members past and current, school district superintendents, friends, and family.

Tenure: “We’re thankful and proud of you,” Superintendent Jonathan Raymond said about 45 educators granted tenure by the Board of Education. Review the distinguished list here: https://bit.ly/3zF4PHq.

Retirees: The Board of Education congratulated retiring school district employees, both from 2021-2022 and 2019-2020, a group that could not be honored in person due to the COVID pandemic. The 2021-2022 retirees totaled 976 years of service; retirees in 2019-2020 encompassed 1,241 years of dedicated employment. Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Corey Reynolds said the retirees “made the lives of students who come to our schools that much better.”

Congratulations, District Retirees 2021-2022!

Administration: Daniel Billups, 33 years.

Albert Leonard Middle School: Jason Anderson, 17 years; Rita Ciampa, 16 years; Mary Degen, 20 years; Karen Gongora, 20 years; Mirjana Jovanovic, 23 years; Allison Maguire, 31 years; Maureen Martin, 16 years.

Barnard Early Childhood Center: Edith Barasch, 25 years; Andre Bryant, 34 years; Debra Reich-Litzky, 27 years; Elena Vallario, 22 years.

Columbus Elementary School: Frances DelFico, 18 years; Susanne Mercatante, 32 years; Ramona Pineiro, 17 years.

Daniel Webster Elementary School: David Bergamini, 28 years; Gail Conroy, 7 years; Andrea Finnerty, 20 years; Frayda Grossbach, 33 years; Genevieve Stroh, 21 years.

District-wide: Scott Benevento, 11 years; Nicholas Girone, 12 years.

Facilities: Willie Clark, 30 years.

George M. Davis Jr. Elementary School: Jane Hadi, 21 years; Abigail Wiegel, 38 years.

Isaac E. Young Middle School: Robert C. Johnson, 33 years; Patrice Kentner, 26 years; Cheryl Minor-Williams, 20 years; Regina Simoes, 28 years.

Jefferson Elementary School: Roslyn Claytor, 6 years; Sloane Occhiuto, 35 years.

New Rochelle High School: Martin Billig, 32 years; Maryann Capossela, 20 years; Kevin Corcoran, 30 years; Bruce Daniele, 17 years; Mary Fama, 25 years; Charles Mascoll, 21 years; Jeanine O'Brien, 15 years; Stephen Pelak, 19 years; Grisella Ramos-Santiago, 20 years; Robin Rappo, 15 years.

Salesian High School: Susan Ramondelli, 13 years.

Trinity Elementary School: Nora Klion-Wolloch, 18 years; Carol Mazzella, 24 years.

William B. Ward Elementary School: Mary Lou Basso, 19 years.

Congratulations, District Retirees, 2019-2020!

Administration: Judith Amato, 20 years; Rhonda Jones, 11 years; Sally Ann Moss, 21 years; Lisdalia Saraiva, 26 years; Laurette Shrage, 26 years.

Albert Leonard Middle School: Rita Ciampa, 16 years; Maureen Martin, 16 years; Albert Santiago, 25 years; Dorothy Vento, 36 years.

Barnard Early Childhood Center: Andre Bryant, 34 years; Betty Latorre, 29 years.

Campus School: Neil Mattera, 36 years.

Columbus Elementary School: Elizabeth Barrett-Zahn, 26 years; Amelia Jones, 28 years; Elaine Meleti-Gallagher, 23 years; Sandra McKay, 18 years.

Daniel Webster Elementary School: Antoinette Boncardo, 33 years; Donna Conte, 33 years; Gail Conroy, 7 years; Mary McCormack, 32 years.

District-wide: Scott Benevento, 11 years; Nicholas Girone, 12 years; Marc Schneider, 11 years.

Facilities: Willie Clark, 30 years.

George M. Davis Jr. Elementary School: Rhonda Abramowitz, 21 years; Abigail Wiegel, 38 years.

Isaac E. Young Middle School: Linda Bollettieri, 18 years; Susan Carpanzano, 13 years; Robert C Johnson, 33 years; Joy Klebanoff, 25 years; Diane Leopold, 34 years; Cheryl Minor-Williams, 20 years; Anthony Rodrigues, 32 years; Barbara Sullivan, 41 years.

Jefferson Elementary School: Susan Archer, 20 years.

New Rochelle High School: Maryann Capossela, 20 years; Bruce Daniele, 17 years; Vitoria Guarino, 27 years; Margaret Kinney, 20 years; Andrew Manning, 30 years; Charles Mascoll, 21 years; Tina McCullough, 14 years; Michael McKay, 33 years; Daniel McNamara, 36 years; Juan Mendez, 19 years; Deborah Minchin, 28 years; Richard Murphy, 35 years; Carol Nardone, 30 years; Karen Rose, 32 years; Joseph Starvaggi, 24 years; Ellen Wallace, 26 years.

Salesian High School: Susan Ramondelli, 13 years.

Trinity Elementary School: Jonathan Atlas, 26 years; Donna DiRusso, 22 years; Paula Katz, 31 years; Nora Klion-Wolloch, 18 years; Theresa Koehler, 18 years; Vicki Richardson, 10 years.

William B. Ward Elementary School: Mary Lou Basso, 19 years; Lorna Ferrara, 20 years; Veronica Lua, 20 years; Gail MacWhirter, 27 years; Cynthia Mancuso, 18 years; Lori Shuster, 29 years; Genevieve Vaccariello, 28 years. 

Two New Episodes of “What Matters Most”:

PTA’s Importance, and the Youth of the Year

Superintendent Jonathan Raymond has posted his latest “What Matters Most” videos, providing timely updates on City School District of New Rochelle innovations, activities, and issues of importance:

• Outgoing PTA Council President Rev. Dierdra Clark discusses all that PTAs add to our schools. Watch at https://bit.ly/3Q7O3Xg.
• Meet New Rochelle High School student and Boys & Girls Club 2022 Youth of the Year Brian Penn. Watch at https://bit.ly/3O54jqe.

"What Matters Most" videos also are always posted at Facebook.com/NewRochelleSchools, and the school district's YouTube channel, YouTube.com/c/CSDNRYouTube.

Blood Drive June 23;

Make an Appointment to Help Save Lives

Giving blood is practically painless, takes about an hour and can save up to three lives. Jefferson Elementary School, in partnership with the New York Blood Center, will host a blood drive on June 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To schedule an appointment, click on the flyer and scan the QR code.

Summer Learning: Enrichment Opportunities Available

There has been a strong response to City School District of New Rochelle Summer Learning Programs, but there is still time to enroll in a variety of academic enrichment classes that build self-confidence and provide new opportunities for students to learn.

The Summer Learning Program’s foundation is built on student interests, teamwork, and a camp-like atmosphere. The school district will be processing already-submitted registrations through June 22, and confirmation email acceptances will be sent to applicants over the next several days. In addition, any new enrollment opportunities in programs initially at capacity will be shared in next week’s Newsletter.

The following enrichment programs have availability:

Learn With Leaders Program: Students who will be in grades 9-12 in September are eligible for this program taking place at New Rochelle High School. Learn more here, https://bit.ly/3x4aXGj; enroll here: https://bit.ly/3m5V7Gf. Classes will be led virtually by an Ivy League instructor while students attend sessions, on site, at New Rochelle High School supported by school district faculty. Learn more in a letter written in both English and Spanish here.                     

Virtual Enterprises International: The program challenges middle (Junior Virtual Enterprises International) and high school (Virtual Enterprises International) students to create a real business from “concept” to “start-up.” Each class will be supported by a New Rochelle faculty member who will assist student teams as they participate in a virtual classroom. Classes are at New Rochelle High School. Students who will be in middle school in September can register here: https://bit.ly/3McZIRi. Students who will be in high school in September can register here: https://bit.ly/3NV6pZT. Learn more in a letter in both English and Spanish here.

Additional Opportunities

• High School Summer Learning Programs: Mondays through Fridays from July 11-29. For incoming ninth-graders recommended by their current school's principal. At New Rochelle High School. Covers mathematics, ELA, and Social-Emotional Learning/Wellness. Contact: Maureen Maire, mmaire@nredlearn.org.
• New Rochelle High School Credit Recovery Program: July 11 through Aug. 12. Registration: June 27-30 and July 5-7, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., all in the high school’s Upper Cafeteria. For rising 10th, 11th, and 12th-graders who need to earn academic credits based on course failures. Contact: Maureen Maire, mmaire@nredlearn.org.
• Summer Regents Exams: Aug. 16: Algebra and English Language Arts at 8:15 a.m., and Global History and Algebra II at 12:15 p.m. Aug. 17: U.S. History, Earth Science and Chemistry at 8:15 a.m.; Geometry and Living Environment at 12:15 p.m. Sign up during the Credit Recovery Program registration sessions outlined in the previous paragraph.

Summer Enrichment: Pre-PAVE Theater & Dance Preparation Program, Aug. 1-25, New Rochelle High School. For rising eighth-graders interested in a dancing or acting audition for the high school’s PAVE (Performing and Visual Arts Education Program). The program provides preparation for auditions and introduces the process. Contact: Deepak Marwah, dmarwah@nredlearn.org.

Summer Stars Program: If you received an invitation to the Summer Stars Program, a reminder that sessions begin on July 5. Classes are on Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to noon, and conclude on July 28.

To learn more, email Dr. John Barnes (johnbarnes@nredlearn.org) or Dr. Charles Coletti (ccoletti@nredlearn.org), administrators of the Summer Learning Program.

Help When You Need it: Tutor.com a Great Study Partner

for Finals, Summer Learning, Standardized Tests, and More

Are you preparing for final exams? Participating in summer learning? Have the ACT, SAT or Regents exams coming up?

Don’t forget to take advantage of Tutor.com, a free resource available to City School District of New Rochelle students.

Tutor.com has proven to be an essential tool to advance student achievement and it has been increasingly and frequently used across our school district. Students connect with live, one-to-one tutors in English or Spanish. Tutor.com remains available 24/7, with the exception of July 4, for all students. 

Students access Tutor.com by signing into their school district devices, accessing Launchpad, and clicking Tutor.com. Students on a non-district device sign into Launchpad (https://launchpad.classlink.com/nredlearn) first, then click the Tutor.com icon. View a video of a Zoom session in which Tutor.com’s vast benefits and rigorous safety protocols are outlined at https://bit.ly/3OWywsY. The access passcode is SFKG@%12.

For more information, email Executive Principal Dr. John Barnes at johnbarnes@nredlearn.org.

A Barbecue, Senior Stroll, and More at High School

A barbecue was a fine “it’s almost summer” way to top off “School Redesign” meetings at New Rochelle High School with the Student Advisory Board. The event was an open social activity for students to advertise for their fall clubs and encourage students to join. The chefs handling the grill and dishing out hamburgers and hot dogs? None other than Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles, in the photo, and House Principal Daniel Gonzalez. Deep thanks for their culinary expertise and to teacher Laurie Collins-Thomas and House Principal Latoya Pryce for successfully executing the event. A special thanks to the PTSA for donating cakes and sweets. Peer in on the action via this video: https://bit.ly/3mTapyi.

Also, the Class of 2022’s Senior Stroll along North Avenue is in place. The PTSA wanted to continue the tradition of posting senior photos outside to showcase this year’s 12th-graders. This is the Stroll’s third year; it was created during the 2020 COVID graduation season. The PTSA sponsored the signs and eight volunteers posted the photos, which wowed passers-by. Take a virtual Stroll through a video with Superintendent Jonathan Raymond: https://bit.ly/3zCeXRr.

Remaining Schedule: Graduations and Moving-Up Ceremonies

Albert Leonard Middle School: June 22, 5 p.m., at the school.

Barnard Early Childhood Center: Second-Grade Moving-Up Ceremony, June 17, 11 a.m. Two tickets per family. "Drive Bye-Bye" June 22, 1 p.m. Families can drive their graduates past the school to wave goodbye to the staff.

Columbus Elementary School: Fifth-grade graduation, June 22, 9:30 a.m., soccer field (indoors if rain). Two guests per student.

George M. Davis Jr. Elementary School: Fifth-grade graduation, June 22, 1 p.m., auditorium and then the front campus. Three family seats per graduate indoors; no limit during the outdoor celebration.

Isaac E. Young Middle School: June 22 at 8:30 a.m. at the school. If rain or inclement weather, the ceremony will be in the New Rochelle High School gym at 8:30 a.m.

Jefferson Elementary School: Kindergarten Stepping-Up Ceremony, June 17, 9 a.m., auditorium.

New Rochelle High School/Huguenot Academy: Graduation, June 23, 5 p.m., McKenna Field.

Daniel Webster Elementary School: Fifth Grade Moving-Up Ceremony, June 21, 9:30 a.m., auditorium. Three tickets per family.

Final Exam and Overall Schedule for Middle Schools

Attention, Albert Leonard Middle School and Isaac E. Young Middle School communities!

Please see the Final Exam Schedule here.

High School Testing Schedule

Webster Math Wizards Star in Olympiads

Daniel Webster Elementary School's Fifth-Grade Math Club, under the direction of school district Kaleidoscope teacher Sandra Galano, competed in Math Olympiads this year. Math Olympiads is an international math competition program for elementary and middle schools in existence since 1979. The Math Club participated in five contests throughout the year, with several students scoring in the top 10% overall. Congratulations to Sofia de la Fuente, Sohum Dash, Giselle Fapohunda, Eliana Johnson, Phoebe Cooper, Sebastian Valdez, Gabriel Aragundi, Benjamin Kurumunda, Reda Rabih, Clara Brooks, Alicia Ruiz Moureau, Melody Wu, Caleb Yoon, Ikechukwu Anyadike, Cesar Alvarez, and Carolyn Porter.

Juneteenth: Historic Day of Pride Now a National Holiday

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a time for celebration and reflection. The Lincoln Park Conservancy, Inc. and the City of New Rochelle are hosting a flag raising, jazz concert, art exhibit, crafts workshop, and African Marketplace on Sunday, June 19 from noon to 5 p.m. to celebrate. The New York Public Library has assembled a reading list for students of all ages (https://on.nypl.org/3zNneSm) interested in learning more about Juneteenth, and the New Rochelle Public Library also is offering programming (please see the stories below). 

Hear more about Juneteenth in this week’s episode of “What Matters Most” with Superintendent Jonathan Raymond and his guest Candace Pinn from the Westchester Alliance of Black School Educators. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jftO07x8LPE

Columbus Takes Special Approach to Commemorate Juneteenth

Columbus Elementary School took special steps to explain and teach the importance of Juneteenth. And its effort is not simply for one day – a much larger initiative is underway. 

The school purchased two books for every teacher in Columbus -- 70 in all -- so it could begin a school-wide, years-long project to study Juneteenth and the associated parts of American history often minimalized in curricula. Teachers read to their classes "What is Juneteenth?" and "Juneteenth for Mazie." Class discussions followed, and teachers asked students to document and share their questions, wonderings, insights, and more from those conversations on shared bulletin boards near the main office. The photos depict some of the many projects. In addition, students are given the “responsibility to be able to explain Juneteenth to their families, to explain why Monday (was) a holiday for the first time in City School District of New Rochelle schools."

Special Olympians Conclude

School Year with Track, Field, and Awards

The New Rochelle High School and Middle School Special Olympics Teams competed in an inter-team track and field competition on June 11 at New Rochelle High School’s McKenna Field. Smiles abounded as athletes ran, threw, and jumped, and parents and spectators alike joined in the excitement of the day. There was a spirit of competition and camaraderie that filled the air. Athletes Christopher Conte and William Monzon recited the Special Olympics Oath, Maggie Towers started the games with the line, ”Let the games begin,” and senior Jonathan Choflet carried in the torch. Medals and awards were given out after the events. Monzon and Towers were awarded “The Golden Deeds of Education Award.” The team looks forward to again participating in the Hudson Valley Region Fall Festival Soccer competition school year in Beacon, Dutchess County. Athletes interested in participating during the next school year can contact Rhonda Boychew at rboychew@nredlearn.org.

Ward Elementary Students Learn About

African Continent, Make Their Own Toy

The Dual Language Classes at William B. Ward Elementary learned about the African Continent. Students explored the geography, customs, and culture. They read in class and watched videos on the African continent. Mrs. Henry and Senora Ponce taught the students that in many parts of the world, children cannot order from Amazon or go to stores to buy toys. As a culminating project, students in the class made his or her own toy.

Trinity’s Marine Biologists Explore, and More

Where can fourth-graders experience Atlantic silverside fish, grass shrimp, and a snowy egret?

Terri Agravat’s fourth-grade STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math) class at Trinity Elementary School did just that during a trip to Hudson Park last week while participating in the Sound Stewards Program, led by Lilli Genovesi of Long Island Sound Study. They were joined by a marine science educator, Dr. Meghan Marrero from the Mercy College Center for STEM Education.

The students observed those marine organisms and conducted water testing to measure temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. This experiential, hands-on learning allowed students to deepen their connections to their local environment and fostered scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship. 

The students had an amazing time. “The trip was so much fun,” said student Suwaida Lawal. “My favorite part was holding the Atlantic silverside fish, which was alive, in my hands so we could measure its length. I never held a live fish before!" 

Thomas Paine Festival Tonight Through Saturday

Show your support for historic preservation and celebrate the grand opening of the new Thomas Paine New Rochelle Center. New York State awarded Thomas Paine his New Rochelle farm on this day, June 16, in 1784. The festival begins tonight from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Thomas Paine Cottage. Musical guests Erik and Eliza Lichack perform each festival night.

Friday, June 17: Thomas Paine Memorial Building, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Symposium on the legacy of Thomas Paine. A special showing of rare Paine artifacts and a Q&A session will be held at Iona College’s Ryan Library, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. End the night with dinner theater at the Greentree Country Club, 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Ian Ruskin performs “To Begin the World Over Again: The Life of Thomas Paine.” The dinner benefits the preservation and restoration of the Thomas Paine Cottage and Thomas Paine Memorial Building, as well as educational programming.

Saturday, June 18: Celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Thomas Paine New Rochelle Center, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Lectures, family activities, Colonial Fair, Juneteenth Celebration, and more.

For information, visit ThomasPaineCenter.org.

City School District of New Rochelle | nred.org