East Rockaway School District

September 5, 2025

Families gather to chalk the walk before first day of school

Families and students came together at Centre Avenue and Rhame Avenue schools for the annual “Chalk the Walk” tradition on the eve of the first day of school.

Armed with colorful chalk, students and parents decorated sidewalks and brick walls with affirmations, drawings and welcome-back messages to greet classmates the next morning. The evening gave students a chance to reconnect with friends and let parents catch up after summer break.

When students arrived at school the next morning, the entrances were filled with bright artwork and encouraging words, creating a warm and festive welcome for the new year.

Children climb a tree in a park, enjoying a sunny day. A woman and children draw with chalk on a sidewalk near a brick wall. Children and adults draw with colorful chalk on a concrete surface. A child draws a colorful rainbow with chalk on a concrete surface. People of all ages draw with chalk on a sidewalk in front of a building. A young girl sits on pavement, smiling and looking at the camera. Children play with chalk on a paved area, watched by adults. A young girl sits on the pavement, surrounded by colorful chalk and a clear plastic container. Three young children draw with chalk on a red brick wall outdoors.