The East Rockaway Board of Education held its monthly meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 21, in the East Rockaway High School auditorium.

Centre Avenue sixth grader Grace Crenshaw opened the meeting by leading attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Board Appreciation Month Celebration

In recognition of Board of Education Appreciation Month, East Rockaway High School Principal Richard Schaffer expressed gratitude to the board members for their dedicated service to the district. The broadcast news students created a special video using new equipment made possible through board support, highlighting recent enhancements at ERHS including updated hallway lighting and branded paint colors throughout the buildings.

The video featured students from Ms. Horvath's virtual enterprise class discussing the benefits of this innovative business course. Student ex-officio board member Sofia Ferkov also shared her appreciation for the learning opportunities and warm welcome she has received as part of the board team.

The presentation concluded with testimonials from students, teachers and community members reflecting on what makes East Rockaway special. Board members received flowers and coasters as tokens of appreciation for their service.

Andrew Stern Walk-a-Thon Success

The annual Andrew Stern Walk-a-Thon took place on September 6, honoring alumnus Andrew Stern, Class of 1978, who died on Sept. 11, 2001, along with many colleagues at Cantor Fitzgerald. This year's proceeds were distributed among the football gridiron club, baseball program, and general athletics program at East Rockaway High School.

Academic Progress Report

Assistant Superintendent Sean Murray presented the "2025 District Report Card," sharing comprehensive testing data from all grade levels across the past school year. Mr. Murray noted promising results, with East Rockaway rapidly approaching county averages. The full presentation is available for viewing here.

District Updates

Before addressing regular business items, Superintendent James DeTommaso announced that preliminary discussions regarding a district realignment plan are underway. The district will schedule meetings with personnel and host town halls for community input in the coming months.

Student representative Sofia Ferkov delivered her report, congratulating senior Eva Lam on her achievement as a National Merit Commended Student and recognizing Sean Smith and Valerie Sirchia for both receiving the Nassau Zone Outstanding Physical Education Student Award. Ferkov also highlighted the popularity of Rhame Avenue's new Video Game Club and the strong family and student participation in this month's "Don't Press Send" presentations.

Superintendent DeTommaso concluded the meeting with his report, which is available here.

No public comments were offered during the meeting.

A recording of the October 21 Board of Education meeting can be viewed here.