Rock Rivalry, East Rockaway High School’s most anticipated annual event, reached its thrilling conclusion this past weekend with the grand finale—Entrance! Now in its 89th year, Rock Rivalry is a spirited competition among the school’s classes that spans several weeks, encompassing a variety of events such as Quiz Bowl, Sports Night, a volleyball match, the creation of murals and stands and, of course, the highly anticipated Entrance performance.

Each event earns points for the competing classes, with the ultimate winner determined after the Entrance performance, a theatrical extravaganza featuring an original script, musical performances, and elaborate stage productions. This year, the senior class successfully defended its title, securing the coveted Rock Rivalry Cup once again.

Coordinated by Mr. Hugh Howard and Ms. Alycia Fahrenkrug, Rock Rivalry is more than just a school competition—it is a cherished tradition that brings together students, staff and the entire East Rockaway community. The excitement surrounding the event was evident as crowds gathered to witness the final performances and celebrate the school’s long-standing tradition.

This year’s panel of judges included distinguished alumni: Mr. Ricky Quass (Class of ’99), Mr. Tom Dwyer (Class of ’06), Mr. Joe Vaglio (Class of ’82), Ms. Emily D’Archaneglis (Class of ’10), Ms. Lisa Rubino (Class of ’78) and Mr. John Turner (Class of ’80). Their collective expertise and deep connection to the school made them the perfect adjudicators for this year’s competition.

Rock Rivalry traces its origins back to 1936, when it was founded by Grace Rudiger, a girls’ Physical Education teacher, as a fundraiser for the athletics program. Rudiger served as the event’s adviser until 1943. The school newspaper, The Courier, held a contest to name the new competition, and it is widely believed that Robert Pastor, from the Class of 1938, coined the term Rock Rivalry. The inaugural event took place on December 4, 1936, raising nearly $200 for the student activity fund. The early years featured sporting events, skits, musical performances, murals, posters and even a refreshment stand in the hallway.

Over the decades, Rock Rivalry has evolved into a cornerstone of East Rockaway High School’s culture, fostering school spirit, teamwork and camaraderie among students. Congratulations to all the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm in keeping this beloved tradition alive!

Click here to view the East Rockaway High School’s 89th annual Rock Rivalry culminates with spectacular Entrance performance slideshow

Date Added: 3/18/2025

March marks the beginning of Pick a Reading Partner (PARP) Month, a statewide family reading program that encourages students to read for at least 20 minutes a day with a partner—whether a family member, friend, or mentor. Originally developed in 1978 by New York State Senator James Donovan, PARP fosters a strong connection between home and school, reinforcing a lifelong love of reading in children.

East Rockaway students embraced the spirit of PARP this week with a special kickoff event. High school students visited Rhame Avenue and Centre Avenue elementary schools, stepping into classrooms to read books with younger students and engage in some fun activities.

Excitement was felt as elementary students eagerly participated, hanging on to every word their high school reading partners shared. For the high school students, the experience was just as meaningful—many found themselves back in their former elementary school classrooms, reconnecting with the place where their own love of reading first began.

By bringing students of all ages together, East Rockaway’s PARP kickoff not only celebrated the joy of reading but also highlighted the bonds that make the East Rockaway community so special.

Click here to view the East Rockaway kicks off PARP Month with a special visit from high school students 2025 slideshow.

Date Added: 3/14/2025

On Friday, Mar. 7, East Rockaway Jr/Sr High School hosted Career Day, an event designed to expose students in grades 7-12 to a wide range of professional opportunities. Organized in collaboration with Career Day Inc., the event provided students with invaluable insights into various career paths through keynote speeches and specialized breakout sessions led by industry professionals.

The day began with two inspiring keynote addresses (one for the junior high and another for the senior high), setting the stage for a series of interactive discussions and presentations. Students had the opportunity to attend smaller breakout sessions where professionals from diverse fields shared their experiences, career trajectories, and advice for success. Among the many careers represented were banking, food service management, physical therapy, law enforcement, marketing, public relations, education, law, programming, the military, cybersecurity, real estate, construction, graphic design, aeronautics, architecture, and microbiology.

By engaging with professionals in different industries, students were able to explore career options, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of the skills and educational requirements necessary for various fields. The event underscored East Rockaway Jr/Sr High School’s commitment to preparing students for their future by equipping them with knowledge and networking opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

Click here to view the Career Day Opens Doors for East Rockaway High School Students slideshow.

 

Date Added: 3/10/2025

East Rockaway’s music department proudly kicked off Music in Our Schools Month with its annual 6th grade music orientation on Mar. 4. The event brought together 6th grade music students from both Rhame and Centre Avenue schools for a morning filled with music-making and engaging activities.

The morning began with a brief icebreaker activity, where elementary students had the opportunity to meet the high school music teachers and student mentors who would be guiding them throughout the event. Following the icebreaker, the students participated in rehearsals alongside their high school mentors, working diligently on pieces they will perform in their upcoming spring concerts. These joint rehearsals gave the younger students the opportunity to experience the structure and energy of a high school music rehearsal. The rehearsals then culminated in a special performance, where each group showcased the music they had been working on.

The event concluded with an interactive Q&A session between the 6th grade students and their high school mentors. This session provided a valuable opportunity for the younger musicians to ask questions about their musical journey ahead, gain insights into high school music programs, and receive advice from experienced student musicians.

Click here to view the East Rockaway Music Department Kicks Off Music in Our Schools Month with 6th Grade Orientation slideshow.

 

Date Added: 3/6/2025

The East Rockaway School District came together on Feb. 25 to honor this year’s recipients of the PTA Founder’s Day award—an esteemed recognition given to individuals who go above and beyond in their dedication to the children of the East Rockaway community.

This year’s honorees included Centre Avenue secretary Angela Prisciandaro, East Rockaway librarian Heather Massa, East Rockaway Junior-Senior High School community member Michael Thorgersen and staff member Jennifer Isik, as well as Rhame Avenue teachers’ aide Carolyn Fernandez and special education teacher Debbie Iannico. Each of these individuals has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of students.

The celebration was a heartfelt tribute to their dedication, filled with appreciation and gratitude from colleagues, families, and community members. Their contributions, whether through education, support, or service, continue to enrich the school district and inspire those around them.

It was a truly special evening to recognize these outstanding members of the East Rockaway community and their impact on the next generation.

 

Click here to view the East Rockaway Honors PTA Founder’s Day Award Recipients slideshow.

 

Date Added: 3/4/2025

Students in Ms. Pietrantonio's AP Biology class at East Rockaway High School recently participated in a hands-on laboratory experience at the Cold Spring Harbor DNA Learning Center Labs, engaging in an advanced scientific experiment on bacterial transformation.

During the visit, students genetically engineered a harmless strain of E. coli bacteria to express the gene for green fluorescent protein. This process allowed the bacteria to acquire a new genetic trait—bioluminescence—causing it to glow under ultraviolet light. The experiment provided an opportunity for students to apply theoretical knowledge of molecular biology to real-world genetic engineering techniques, reinforcing their comprehension of genetic transformation and exposing them to cutting-edge laboratory techniques used in research and biomedical sciences.

The Cold Spring Harbor DNA Learning Center is a renowned institution dedicated to promoting science education and genetic literacy. Through its specialized programs, students gain invaluable exposure to techniques and concepts that play a crucial role in modern genetics and medicine.

East Rockaway High School continues to provide enriching educational experiences that inspire students to explore STEM careers and develop a passion for scientific discovery.

 

Click here to view the East Rockaway AP Biology Students Conduct Genetic Engineering Experiment at Cold Spring Harbor DNA Learning Center slideshow.

 

Date Added: 2/26/2025