The holiday spirit was alive and well at Centre Avenue School during the annual holiday song sing-along, an event eagerly anticipated by students and staff on the final day before winter break. This beloved tradition brought the school community together to celebrate the season with songs that highlighted the diverse cultures represented within the school.

Led by the dynamic duo of Ms. Kelly and Ms. Lee, the sing-along featured an exciting lineup of holiday classics and pop favorites (Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” was a favorite). Students were encouraged to take turns singing into the microphone, showcasing their voices to the applause of their peers. Adding to the festive atmosphere, Ms. Kelly even invited students to dance along with her, filling the room with energy and joy.

A highlight of the event was a heartfelt skit performed by the school’s Drama Club. Written and directed by the students themselves, the skit delighted the audience with its creativity.

Fun was undoubtedly had by all, as Centre Avenue School once again proved that the best way to celebrate the holidays is together!

 

Last night, the East Rockaway Board of Education celebrated Ms. Marypat Hickey's retirement, honoring her many years of dedicated service to our school community. From her tireless efforts to her exceptional leadership of the annual Senior Awards Night, Ms. Hickey has made a lasting impact on countless students and families.

Thank you, Ms. Hickey, for your passion, commitment, and care. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy will always be part of East Rockaway!

 

Date Added: 12/18/2024

The East Rockaway School District is committed to ensuring that every family has a joyful and supported holiday season through a series of community-driven initiatives. From food drives to toy collections and personalized family support, the district is working hard to make a difference for those in need.

At the elementary level, the Thanksgiving food drive, organized in partnership with the Student Council and K-Kids Club, was a resounding success. Led by Danielle Schaetzle and Mary Boll at Centre Avenue School, students collected a wide range of non-perishable food items, boxed goods and hygiene products. Additionally, Alycia Fahrenkrug secured donations from local businesses and restaurants, adding extra festive treats to the mix. These donations were assembled into holiday baskets and distributed to families during Thanksgiving week.

This month the district is collaborating with the Little Saint Nick Foundation to bring holiday cheer through a toy drive. Donation bins have been placed at both Rhame Avenue School and Centre Avenue School, where families can contribute new toys. These toys will be gifted to children in need, ensuring that every child experiences the magic of the holiday season.

In a heartwarming effort, the district’s social workers—Michelle Picciolo (Centre Avenue), Maureen Schutta (Rhame Avenue), and Lauren Boll and Lucy Gordon (East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School)—have partnered with Board of Education member Ozzie Lonergan to provide personalized support to families in need. After identifying specific needs such as clothing, winter gear, shoes, personal care items and even household appliances, Ms. Lonergan and her network of friends and family “adopt” these families, shopping for the items on their wish lists.

The district’s social workers then coordinate with Ms. Lonergan to arrange pick-up or delivery of the gifts, ensuring that families receive their much-needed support in time for the holidays.

Through these initiatives, the East Rockaway School District exemplifies the spirit of giving, demonstrating how the power of community can bring joy, warmth, and hope to families during the holiday season.

 

Click here to view the East Rockaway Schools Spread Holiday Joy with Community Support Initiatives slideshow.

Date Added: 12/18/2024

 

On Dec. 11, the East Rockaway High School senior chorus participated in a dynamic choral workshop led by Dr. David Fryling from Hofstra University. Dr. Fryling, a nationally recognized leader in the choral field, worked closely with the students on their musical selections for the upcoming winter concert, providing expert guidance and fostering their passion for choral music.

Known for his engaging and energetic approach, Dr. Fryling inspired the senior chorus with his insights and techniques. As the Director of Choral Activities at Hofstra University, Dr. Fryling conducts the Hofstra Chorale and chamber choir and is the founder of the eVoco Voice Collective, a distinguished chamber choir composed of choral professionals from across Long Island. Additionally, he serves as the President of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), further establishing his expertise and influence in the choral community.

The workshop was a resounding success, leaving both students and faculty eager for future collaborations with Hofstra University's esteemed music faculty. The East Rockaway Music Department expressed its gratitude to Dr. Fryling for sharing his knowledge and artistry with the senior chorus.

The senior chorus is excited to present the fruits of their hard work at the winter concert, scheduled for Dec. 19, at 6:00 PM. The concert promises to be a wonderful showcase of the students' talents and their growth under the guidance of Dr. Fryling and their dedicated music teachers.

The East Rockaway music department looks forward to building on this partnership with Hofstra University to continue enriching the musical experiences of its students.

Click here to view the East Rockaway High School Senior Chorus Benefits from Choral Workshop with Dr. David Fryling slideshow.

Date Added: 12/13/2024

 

The East Rockaway varsity football team has added another prestigious accolade to its list of achievements, being honored with the 2024 Conference 4 community service award at the 58th Annual Nassau County Gridiron Dinner on Dec. 9. This recognition highlights the team's extraordinary commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field.

Under the guidance of their dedicated coaches, the East Rockaway football program has long emphasized the importance of giving back to the community. This year, the players truly embodied that spirit, engaging in initiatives that demonstrated leadership, compassion and teamwork beyond the game.

As part of a leadership group, the varsity players visited elementary schools during the spring, serving as role models and inspiring younger students to strive for excellence in all aspects of life. Additionally, the team organized and executed a successful fundraiser this past fall, selling T-shirts to support the Making Strides for Breast Cancer Society. Their collective efforts raised over $3,000 for the cause, showcasing their dedication to helping others and supporting critical health initiatives.

“We weren’t just successful on the field, but off the field too,” said Coach Russell Pajer, reflecting on the dual impact of their season. This ethos of service and community engagement has become a hallmark of the East Rockaway football program, instilling values that extend far beyond the scoreboard.

The community service award is a testament to the team’s character and the strength of the program, which prioritizes not only athletic achievement but also the development of young men who are committed to making a difference. Congratulations to the East Rockaway Varsity Football Team for exemplifying the true meaning of leadership and community spirit.

Date Added: 12/12/2024