Valentine’s Day at Rhame Avenue School was extra special this year for the third graders, who participated in a heartwarming “puppy adoption” event on Feb. 14.

Each student selected their very own stuffed animal puppy, giving it a special name and receiving a personalized adoption certificate to make it official. To complete the experience, the young adopters crafted custom collars for their new furry friends using pipe cleaners and colorful beads.

The activity brought smiles and excitement to the classroom, providing a creative and engaging way for students to celebrate the holiday. The puppy adoption not only embraced the spirit of Valentine’s Day but also encouraged imagination and responsibility in a fun and meaningful way.

Rhame Avenue’s third graders will surely remember this lovable celebration for years to come!

Click here to view the Rhame Avenue Third Graders Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Puppy Adoptions slideshow.

Date Added: 2/20/2025

Rhame Avenue School was filled with excitement and energy on Feb. 5 as kindergarten and first-grade students took to the red carpet for the “Fundations Fashion Show”. This engaging event celebrated students' progress in the Fundations program, a phonics-based curriculum that builds strong literacy foundations.

Kindergarteners proudly showcased and modeled individual letters of the alphabet they have learned, while first graders highlighted blends and glued sounds they mastered. The first-floor hallway transformed into a runway, complete with a red carpet, where students—along with their teachers—strutted their stuff to the upbeat tune of ‘ABC’ by The Jackson 5.

Adding to the fun, fifth and sixth-grade buddies joined in to cheer on their younger peers, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere. Principal Jack Bixhorn also took part in the celebration, making his way down the red carpet alongside the students.

Superintendent James DeTommaso and his cabinet were in attendance to witness the joy and enthusiasm firsthand.

The Fundations Fashion Show not only reinforced phonics skills but also fostered confidence and school spirit, making it a memorable and meaningful experience for all involved.

Click here to view the Fundations Fashion Show Brings Learning to Life at Rhame Avenue slideshow.

Date Added: 2/10/2025

The East Rockaway High School varsity cheer team brought energy and enthusiasm to Rhame Avenue School on Feb. 3, hosting a special cheer clinic for elementary students.

The event featured two dynamic sessions tailored to different age groups. The first session welcomed students in grades K-3, while the second session was designed for students in grades 4-6. Led by Cheer Coach DeBenedetto, the varsity cheerleaders guided the younger students through an engaging program that introduced them to essential cheerleading skills.

Throughout the clinic, the elementary students learned cheers, jumps, stunts, and pom-pom routines under the mentorship of the experienced varsity cheerleaders. The hands-on instruction provided a fantastic opportunity for the younger students to develop their skills, build confidence, and experience the excitement of cheerleading firsthand.

Beyond learning new techniques, the clinic fostered a strong sense of community and school spirit. The younger students had the chance to bond with their high school mentors, creating connections that extend beyond the gym.

Overall, the cheer clinic was a resounding success, leaving participants with big smiles and a newfound enthusiasm for cheerleading. It was a fun and memorable way for students across the district to come together, learn, and celebrate their school spirit.

Click here to view the ERHS Varsity Cheer Team Hosts Exciting Cheer Clinic for Elementary Students slideshow.

 

Date Added: 2/6/2025

The auditorium at East Rockaway Junior/Senior High School was transformed into a delightfully eerie setting on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 as students from across the district took center stage for their production of “The Addams Family.” The musical, known for its quirky humor and unforgettable characters, captivated audiences with outstanding performances, creative set designs and toe-tapping musical numbers.

Directed by Christina Pace, the production showcased the incredible talent of East Rockaway's student body, featuring a diverse cast that included a few talented sixth graders from Rhame Avenue and Centre Avenue schools alongside the junior/senior high school students. The collaboration highlighted the district's dedication to fostering the performing arts across all grade levels.

The musical's plot, centered around the Addams family's interactions with Wednesday Addams' normal boyfriend and his family, offered a perfect blend of comedy and heartfelt moments. Students demonstrated impressive vocal abilities, especially during standout numbers like When You're an Addams and Pulled, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Behind the scenes, the production benefited from the hard work of the stage crew. The gothic-inspired sets and meticulously crafted costumes transported the audience into the Addams' spooky world, while the lighting design added an extra layer of atmosphere to the performance.

The pit orchestra, conducted by ERHS music teacher Noah Luft-Weissberg, provided dynamic accompaniment that enhanced each scene, with music department chair Peter Ceglio adding flair on percussion.

The success of “The Addams Family” highlights the vibrant arts culture within the East Rockaway UFSD, inspiring both participants and audience members alike. Bravo to the cast, crew and directors for bringing this spooky, spectacular show to life!

Click here to view the East Rockaway UFSD Stages Spooktacular Production of “The Addams Family” slideshow.

 

Date Added: 2/4/2025

The Rhame Avenue Literacy Enrichment Committee recently hosted officers from the 4th Precinct POP Unit for a special reading event with first and second grade students. Officers Ruff, Rofrano, and Kondak each delighted their respective classes by reading the beloved story “Officer Buckle and Gloria.”

Following the readings, the officers engaged with the students in a lively Q&A session, answering questions about their roles as police officers and sharing insights about how they help the community.

This fun and interactive event not only supported the students’ current unit on community helpers but also reinforced the important connection between literacy and real-world learning. The visit left students inspired and excited about the vital work community helpers do every day.

 

Date Added: 1/24/2025