The district’s Building Bridges to Understanding Committee held its first meeting on Monday, June 27. With more than 30 stakeholders and community members represented, cultural competency consultant Rodney Brown facilitated the meeting.

“I’m proud of our community coming together for this purpose of advancing the conversation and elevating our universal awareness to ensure all students, staff and families within the East Rockaway community feel a sense of belonging,” Superintendent of Schools James DeTommaso said. “This meeting formed an excellent foundation to enable us to better meet the needs of our community now and into the future.”

The purpose of the committee is to build bridges in our school community to create a safe atmosphere of collaboration, belonging and dignity that inspires us to gain knowledge and understanding that will enable positive behavior and acceptance. The committee will serve as a safe space to engage in collaboration and problem-solving to address diversity, equity and inclusivity issues that arise in our school community. Approximately seven more meetings are scheduled for throughout the 2022-23 school year.

Date Added: 7/5/2022