The East Rockaway Board of Education convened on Dec.16 to recognize outstanding student accomplishments, approve a tenure recommendation and update the community on facilities projects and district planning efforts.

Senior Eva Lam, a National Merit Scholarship qualifier known for her academic excellence and strong character, opened the meeting by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

East Rockaway High School Principal Richard Schaffer presented students with Super Master and AP Scholar recognitions for the 2024-25 school year. Super Master awards are given to students who scored 95 or better on one or more Regents exams in January or June, while AP Scholar designations recognize students who demonstrate exceptional performance on Advanced Placement exams.

Principal Schaffer highlighted that last year the school set a record with 57 AP Scholars, including 24 with distinction – a testament to the rigorous academic program and student dedication at East Rockaway High School.

Rhame Avenue Principal Jack Bixhorn recommended tenure for Ms. Alexis Freudenberg, a special education teacher at Rhame Avenue.

In facilities updates, Assistant Superintendent Michael Van Wart provided positive news on two ongoing projects. The cupola restoration project is moving forward after the architect and general contractor addressed structural concerns. Work will resume over the Christmas break. Mr. Van Wart also announced that the Centre Avenue playground and oil tank remediation project has been completed, allowing playground and field activities to resume. A temporary fence remains around the reseeded area until the grass is fully established.

Superintendent James DeTommaso thanked various groups and organizations throughout the district for their fundraisers and donations supporting East Rockaway schools.

Mr. DeTommaso provided an update on the elementary restructuring initiative, reporting that the committee met on Nov. 20 and Dec. 4 with strong participation from teachers, staff and Board of Education members. The group has created goals and objectives for each subcommittee and is now working to develop a comprehensive plan.

Energy was high in the room, Mr. DeTommaso noted, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the process. Once an agreed-upon plan emerges from staff discussions, it will be presented to the community through multiple channels, including PTA meetings, individual sessions, and town halls. While some preliminary information has been shared with PTAs, the plan remains in draft format. The superintendent assured the community that a more solidified framework will be shared once staff consensus is reached.

Student representative Sofia Ferkov delivered updates from throughout the district, and Superintendent DeTommaso concluded his report by wishing happy holidays to the entire East Rockaway community.

Two community members offered public comments during the designated portion of the meeting.

A recording of the full meeting can be viewed through the East Rockaway Schools meeting archive.