THE ROCK REPORT: February 2026
ACHIEVEMENT
Mid-Year Data Meetings
Mid-year data meetings are in process across the elementary schools, revealing substantial growth in both math and reading. In reading, 41% of students have already met their end-of-year targets. The middle school is still completing assessments, with data expected after the break. Teachers are reevaluating supports and enrichment opportunities based on these results and regrouping students in classrooms accordingly.
Life Science State Labs
Students in Mr. Duet's Life Science Biology classes have mastered homeostasis through their second state lab. The students experimented with body temperature equilibrium when exposed to frigid temperatures, applying scientific concepts through hands-on investigation.
Project-Based Learning in Math
Algebra 2 students are engaged in a project-based learning initiative as part of their statistics and probability unit. The students are collecting data on school lunches to apply mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
Arts students earned 67 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards at the regional level, including 13 gold keys across multiple disciplines. Sophia Carnegie was selected as for Long Island’s Best: Young Artists at The Hecksher Museum, with her work among only 84 pieces accepted for the exhibition.
INNOVATION
Physics Prediction Contest
Students in Mr. Young's Regents Physics classes participated in a prediction contest designed to make physics both fun and educational. The students predicted the landing spot of a ball and attempted to hit a target, combining scientific reasoning with hands-on experimentation.
Chemistry Experiments
Students in Ms. Petricca's Chemistry classes learned about the concept of radioactive decay through an in-class experiment using M&Ms. This hands-on approach helped students understand complex scientific principles through accessible materials.
Student-Designed App
Adam Kolakowsky, a ninth-grade AP computer science student, is designing SmartPark, an AI predictive parking app that applies classroom learning to solve real-world problems.
OPPORTUNITY
Football Program Merger
Mr. Gregory and Mr. Van Wart finalized contracts for the merger of East Rockaway's football program with West Hempstead. This partnership ensures students from both districts can continue participating in the sport they love while maintaining enough players on the roster for a developmental squad. The collaboration will also help avoid injuries caused by players overplaying due to limited roster sizes. Home games will be split between East Rockaway and West Hempstead, with most practices taking place at East Rockaway.
CONNECTION
Middle School Lacrosse Partnership
The middle school lacrosse team will begin practicing on the turf at Rolling Rock camp next door. This arrangement will free up space and reduce travel time while fostering a connection with Rolling Rock. Games will continue to take place at Bay Park.
Recruitment Videos
Mr. Healy and the recruitment and retention committee are developing a series of videos for the hiring section of the district website. These videos will help prospective candidates connect with the district and learn about the East Rockaway community.
Family Engagement Nights
Three family engagement nights are planned for the coming months: Literacy Night, World Cultures Night, and Safe and Responsible Use of AI. These events provide opportunities for families to engage with important educational topics and connect with the school community.
Please save the following dates:
- March 5: Safe and Responsible Use of AI
- March 31: World Cultures Night
- April 23: Family Literacy Night
Realignment Resources
The "Rumor vs. Reality" document about realignment is now available on the district homepage, along with a link to a community feedback survey. The district welcomes input from families and community members on this important topic.
Watch the full recording of the February board of education meeting here, which included this report.