East Rockaway School District

September 4, 2025

East Rockaway schools hit the books for first day of 2025-26

East Rockaway schools officially hit the books again on Sept. 3, as students returned for the first day of the new school year.

At the junior-senior high school, seniors arrived in style, pulling up in cars decked out with messages like “Last first day.” Many carried throwback backpacks featuring childhood favorites such as Peppa Pig, Bluey, Hello Kitty, Paw Patrol and Ninja Turtles. Principal Richard Schaffer, Assistant Principal TJ Terranova and other administrators greeted students at the front entrance as they reunited with friends and teachers.

Later that morning, Rhame Avenue and Centre Avenue elementary schools opened their doors to younger students. Sidewalks leading up to both schools had been decorated the night before with colorful chalk affirmations and messages of encouragement from parents and students. Principals Calia Kelly and Jack Bixhorn welcomed families with enthusiasm as classrooms buzzed with first-day energy.

With smiles, school spirit and plenty of East Rock pride, the district is looking ahead to a year of learning, growth and community.

Two smiling young men with backpacks give a thumbs up in front of a school entrance. Children and adults gather outside, possibly at a school or event. A group of smiling school children pose for a photo outdoors, wearing backpacks. Children with backpacks and bags gather near a school fence, likely at drop-off. Two young women with backpacks smile at the camera, holding a drink. People gather outside a brick building, possibly a school, on a sunny day. Two young women with pink-streaked hair smile at the camera, backpacks on. The entrance to East Rockaway High School is decorated with a 'Welcome Back' sign. Five high school seniors pose together, wearing matching t-shirts that say 'Seniors 2026'. Two young women smile at the camera, standing in front of a brick building.