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Schools, Offices Closed Monday, June 20, in Observance of Juneteenth

City School District of New Rochelle schools and offices will be closed on Monday, June 20 in observance of Juneteenth, a federal holiday. June 19 marks the day when federal troops finally arrived in Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to ensure all enslaved people were freed – even though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued Jan. 1, 1863.

Science Research Stars Shine Again:

Sophomores Earn Prestige, Winning 12 Awards

New Rochelle High School sophomores participating in the school’s prestigious Science Research Program won 12 awards at last weekend’s Somers Science Fair.

The Somers Science Fair gives first-year science research students an opportunity to share their proposed research projects. This year, there were 526 projects from 35 schools, evaluated by more than 370 judges.

Congratulations to the winners:

• Jacob Alperin: First place, Medicine & Health
• Andreas Mulder: First place, Behavior
• Devin Riebe: First place, Computer Science
• Imaad Uzun: First place, Behavior
• Alishba Zia: First place, Behavior
• Raechel Chang: Second place, Behavior
• Amena Chaudhary: Second place, Behavior
• Varsha Mathew: Second place, Biochemistry
• Obinna Njoku: Second place, Cellular and Molecular Biology
• Lucy Casanova: Second place, Medicine & Health
• Nobuto Igarashi: Second place, Computer Science
• Samantha Ramirez: Second place, Behavior

“When my name was called for an award – second place, for that matter – I was beyond words,” Njoku said. “All I could do was smile in amazement and shake my head in disbelief… It truly is the greatest feeling when you know you've worked so hard for something, and it actually pays off, right in front of you. When I got my award, I realized just how important my research could actually be, and how far it went beyond the science fair.”

Ramirez said, “When I was announced as one of the winners, I felt so proud of myself because we put so much time and effort into this. I felt that all the work and endless practice paid off, and my win made me feel like my proposed research on Latinas was as important to other people as it was to me.”

Zia was similarly excited: “It was exciting going to my first science fair! I really enjoyed meeting other science research students. It was especially fun presenting to a new group of people. Getting an award was definitely a plus to the whole experience. It was such an honor to be able to receive recognition for my work. It felt rewarding, as I put in so much work and spent so much time on my project. I’m so grateful to be able to represent New Rochelle. Thank you to everyone involved for making this happen.”  

The group photo shows sophomores in the Science Research Program. Individual photos, from left, are of Alishba Zia, Obinna Njoku, and Samantha Ramirez.

Sixth-grader Chloe Stineman:

From Albert Leonard to Carnegie Hall!

Congratulations to Albert Leonard Middle School sixth-grader Chloe Stineman, who made her debut at Carnegie Hall! Stineman is a member of the Westchester Children's Chorus, and she represented New Rochelle as the chorus, for the first time, performed at Carnegie Hall. The chorus sang the Ragazzi portion of “Carmina Burana,” a cantata composed in the 1930s. Well done to all!

Senior Prom: An Evening to Remember

New Rochelle High School’s seniors danced, enjoyed, and partied at their Senior Prom this week, and a great time was had by all!

Four Proud Students Graduate from Project SEARCH Program

Congratulations to the newest graduates of Project SEARCH, a school-to-work transition program for 18- to 21-year-olds with developmental disabilities. The program, a partnership among the City School District of New Rochelle, Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital, ACCES-VR, and Ability Beyond, serves as an alternative to the last year of high school and provides training and education leading to employment.

This year’s graduates are William Monzon, Michelle Ramirez, Thalia Trinidad, and Linly Zheng. The ceremony was held at Montefiore New Rochelle, with proud families and friends in attendance.

Students in the program have had an extremely high success rate of being hired by Montefiore and other community businesses, which have included Dave & Buster's, Stew Leonard’s, Stop & Shop, and Home Depot.

Senior Examines Potential Protein Related

to Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

The students in New Rochelle High School’s Science Research Program explore a dazzling range of topics under the mentorship of experts from some of the top institutions of learning and exploration. Students’ projects are regularly featured in this newsletter.

Student:  Sabrina Lin, Senior

Mentor: Elia Brodsky, Omicslogic 

More than 3.3 million children ages 12 to 17 have been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to a national 2016 parent survey published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This statistic interested Sabrina Lin, who dedicated her junior-year research project to ADHD. In addition, she further built upon that research for her senior-year project, which she devoted to looking at additional factors – particularly a protein – responsible for the disorder.

“Last year, I looked at the external factors of ADHD, and this year, I wanted to look more at the internal factors,” Lin said. “This project is really important to me not only because it introduces me to bioinformatics, a growing area of research, but also because it is such a common neurological disorder that impacts everyday learning for students.” 

Lin selected a potential ADHD protein – ALKBH6 – to research. She compared the protein with eight article-related proteins using a computer program. Lin then determined which proteins are the most similar to ALKBH6 and determined several possible roles of ALKBH6 in ADHD, based on the similar proteins’ known roles. 

“I grouped the proteins into two groups,” said Lin. “The first group was the ALKB protein family group, and the second was the non-ALKB protein family group. When I performed a statistical significance test, the first group was significantly more similar. While this was not surprising, this ensured that I checked all proteins to the same degree.

“After grouping the proteins, I determined which proteins were the most similar. With this information, I reviewed the research on the most similar proteins and concluded the possible roles of ALKBH6 in ADHD individuals based on that.” 

While at times rigorous and exhausting, Lin said the Science Research Program has prepared her for the future. 

“The Science Research Program has exposed me to the tedious workings of research papers, conducting actual studies, and scientific presentations,” said Lin. “I am confident that in the future, I will not only be a better speaker, but also a pro at understanding the complicated research world."

Tonight: Open House at Huguenot Academy

Huguenot Academy, a program of New Rochelle High School, is hosting an open house tonight, Thursday, June 9, from 6-8 p.m. Learn more about its academic model of individualized student support, smaller class sizes, and its emphasis on ensuring students are ready to “launch” after graduation.

Huguenot students have full access to the high school’s extracurricular, athletic, and all other programs. High levels of engagement and a collaborative home-school partnership are at the foundation of the program’s approach. This includes a low student-to-teacher ratio, innovative course offerings to hone students’ post-secondary goals, flexibility to pursue non-traditional pathways, empowerment, and more. Click the flyer for more information.

In addition, watch the latest edition of “What Matters Most,” Superintendent Jonathan Raymond’s video series, featuring an interview with Huguenot Academy Director Andrea Schwach at Youtube.com/watch?v=M42NdiEGAY4. "What Matters Most" videos are always posted at Facebook.com/NewRochelleSchools, and on the school district's YouTube channel, Youtube.com/c/CSDNRYouTube.

Strategic Roadmap Update Process Progresses

The City School District of New Rochelle is continuing to refresh its Strategic Roadmap, including updating the tenets which will serve as its foundation. Back in February, the Board of Education held a workshop to revisit the school district’s Vision, Mission, and Core Beliefs. At a special meeting on Tuesday, Board members participated in an exercise to further refine, update, and refresh those three pillars that will serve as the underlying principles for refreshing the Strategic Roadmap. The Board is expected to finalize each by the end of June. More information, including opportunities for community participation, will be provided as the initiative progresses.

National Junior Honor Society

Inducts 154 at Albert Leonard Middle School

There are 154 new Albert Leonard Middle School students in the National Junior Honor Society!

During the June 3 induction ceremony last week, students were called up to the stage to be honored, and previously inducted eighth-graders shared information about the Society’s five pillars. Mollie Aisner spoke about Scholarship. Truman Broutman spoke about leadership. Yessnia Ayala discussed Citizenship. Paxton Rogove talked about Service. Rosie Palmer spoke about Character.

Honor Society members Claire Sehdeva and Cory Seelenfreund recited the society’s oath, and member Maya Clark provided a welcome and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Assistant Principals Dr. Christopher Salinas and Matthew Lucero presented the inductees. Principal Camille Edwards-Thomas offered welcoming and closing remarks.

Superintendent Jonathan Raymond was on hand for the festivities. Check out his video, posted before the event:

https://www.facebook.com/newrochelleschools/videos/369626828369244. View photos of the event at these links: https://bit.ly/3xpu7Ie and https://bit.ly/3zlCF48.

View the program, including the names of inductees, here.

New Leadership for PTA Council

The New Rochelle PTA Council held its 2022 Installation Dinner last week, and it was a moment for the incoming president, Jenna Autuori Dedic, at left in the photo, to share a moment with the outgoing president, Dierdra Clark. Thank you to all who serve our PTAs and support achievement for our students!

Algebra Curriculum Zoom Monday

Is your child taking Algebra I next school year at New Rochelle High School? Do you want to learn more about the program? Please join a Zoom meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, June 13, to learn about the problem-based curriculum adoption and resources available to support your child in achieving success in Algebra I.

The link to join is https://zoom.us/j/97991069116#success.

Special Day for Special Students at College Acceptance

and Post-Secondary Activity Commitment Celebration

When New Rochelle High School special education teacher Pamela Hallman-Johnson (photo below) saw a need to walk some seniors through the college-application process, she took action.

That started a year-long journey in which students learned how to set up, access, and utilize College Board information, Common App college-application software, and student-aid accounts. Students learned how to write a college essay, request information, request letters of recommendation, complete a financial-aid application, an Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation application, and how to maximize email.

To ease students’ anxiety about entering college as a student with a disability, Hallman-Johnson arranged testimonials from college students and graduates who were successful. She set up an informational session led by her daughter, Chelsea Johnson, a Manhattanville College graduate who had accessed Manhattanville’s accessibility services; Shaina Campbell, who used accessibility services at Iona College as an undergraduate and at Queens College as a graduate student; and Monica Jackson, Accessibility Services Director at Rockland Community College. In addition, Hallman-Johnson’s husband, Judge Reginald J. Johnson of the Peekskill City Court and an Adjunct Professor at Westchester Community College, gave words of encouragement and inspiration to graduating seniors.

All efforts culminated with The College Acceptance and Post-Secondary Activity Commitment Celebration at New Rochelle High School for these special seniors, and Superintendent Jonathan Raymond and Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles stopped by to offer their congratulations. “Educating students for me is more than a career, it is a ministry,” Hallman-Johnson said. “As such, it is my desire to educate and speak life and hope into every student I come in contact with.”

Students said they clearly benefitted from in-depth efforts.

“The college process this year was an excellent experience because it taught me responsibility as a young adult to take charge of my life,” said student Jesus Barrera. “When I did this process, it changed my mind from a high school student to an adult. I grew exponentially during this time from how I entered my senior year in September, thinking it’s going to be an easy year. But now it’s completely different from so much time passing, and I am doing big things for myself.”

Student Lance Milton said, “The college process helped me communicate with my teachers, ask them for letters of recommendation, special-education services, and how to send emails. I learned how to take responsibility for managing my time and my transition from high school to college.”

Learn more about the students’ successes here.

Trinity’s Coding Club: After-School Adventures and Exploration

Trinity Elementary School was excited to host an after-school coding program for grades 2-5. Coding Club started on May 10 and meets every Tuesday for six weeks.

Coding, or computer programming, helps students develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. It also inspires students to be creative, and develop perseverance and confidence.

“Our lessons are based on the New York State Computer Science Standards,” said Terri Agravat, who teaches STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) and facilitates the Club with fellow teacher and Trinity Math Coach Johanna Vasquez. “We focus on identifying a problem and breaking it down into smaller steps, recognizing that there are multiple ways to solve a problem following an algorithm (set of steps) to complete a task, and identifying and debugging errors in an algorithm. Students do not even realize how much they are learning because they are having so much fun!”

Students use a variety of coding devices and explore kid-friendly computer-programming activities. The sessions are taught by teachers Denise Larkin, Rachel Collins, Adrienne Quinn, and Yessenia Sanchez. A grade-by-grade look:

Second Grade: Before working with mouse robots, students practiced deciphering coded messages and learning directional vocabulary. Students then practiced coding by creating mazes and coding their mouse robot to get to the cheese.

Third Grade: Students explored how to code with Ozobots, a robot that codes with markers. After practicing how to code special movements and speeds, students created a scaled map of their route from home to school and coded a path for their Ozobot to follow that route.

Fourth Grade: After an introduction to computational thinking, students began using block- and text-based coding on BrainPop, an engagement tool, to make conversations between two sprites or icons.

Fifth Grade: Students work with Makey Makey kits, which are circuit boards that plug into a computer and function like a keyboard. Students, for instance, were able to use the keyboard as a piano. These kits can be connected to other conductive materials such as foil and even their bodies to create closed circuits.

Remaining activities include programming a Bee-Bot to reach coordinates on a student-created map, and using Scratch, an online coding program, with Makey Makey kits. This program also benefited the teachers who explored coding devices and planned grade-appropriate activities. “It was great to see the progression of coding activities from one grade to another,” Vasquez said.

Members of Columbus Community

Denounce Gun Violence

Nothing is more important than safety at all City School District of New Rochelle schools. Some members of the Columbus Elementary School community – teachers, nurses, and two students – took a symbolic stand against gun violence by posing for a photo wearing orange-hued clothes.

“Wear Orange” is held each June to honor the more than 40,000 people killed with guns and approximately 85,000 shot and wounded every year, according to WearOrange.org. 

Safety First: Report Concerns Anonymously

Members of the City School District of New Rochelle community can anonymously submit suspicious activity,

bullying, or other issues by clicking the “Anonymous Reporting” button on the school district’s main website,

nred.org, as well as on the website for each New Rochelle school. This tool is in keeping with the school district’s commitment to providing a safe, healthy, equitable educational environment.



The system will request details about the incident, such as date, time, location, nature of the complaint, and those involved. After submitting a report, a confirmation will be provided. The reporting system is monitored between 7 a.m.-5 p.m. during the school year. After submitting a report, the sender will receive a confirmation.

A call to a building’s principal is another way to notify our school district about a situation that impedes learning,

health, safety, or a proper educational environment.

End-of-Year Fun at Columbus Carnival – And Who’s in the Dunking Booth??

The Columbus Carnival? That’s a great way to cap a great year at Columbus Elementary School! Students and staff, on a sunny day recently, enjoyed numerous activities and games. One highlight was the Dunking Booth – with Principal Michael Galland inside! Students took turns throwing a ball trying to hit a target, which would dunk Galland into a barrel of water. Galland’s fate was sealed, however, when one student took decisive action! Watch the video to see how it – and Galland – went down! 

Facebook.com/newrochelleschools/videos/2515955478540674

War Veterans Share Meaning of Patriotism at Ward

Heroes came to William B. Ward Elementary School last week.

Ward welcomed local veterans for a Memorial Day Assembly, an event organized by American Legion Post 8 Commander Dennis Starr, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 439-NR Commander Peter Parente, parent of Ward student Amelia Parente, and Ward librarian Sarah LaMotta.

Students in grades two through five heard stories from Dario Castilano, United States Army, Vietnam Era; Col. Richard Gulley, United States Army, Iraq and Afghanistan Wars; Bishop Fetson Leak, United States Army, Korean War; and Peter Parente, United States Marine Corps, Persian Gulf War veteran (left to right in main photo). The veterans explained the meaning of patriotism, what the American flag symbolizes, and answered questions from students.

Annabel Sanchez, a fifth-grader in Ann Briscoe’s class, said, “This experience with knowing what our veterans went through was very interesting and I learned a lot from it.” Amelia Parente, a second-grader in Danielle Cavaluzzo’s class, pictured with her father in the second photo, said, “It was very exciting to listen to my dad talk about his life in the Marines. I am very proud of my dad.”

LaMotta said, “The assembly was a great success! The students learned of the bravery and strength of these soldiers and we can’t wait to invite them back for future events at Ward School.”

Peter Parente concluded, "What a wonderful reception here at Ward Elementary School! The students as well as the staff were so welcoming. The children were fascinated by our stories and enthusiastically attentive. It was so heartwarming and what a connection we made. Looking forward to returning soon and hope to make this a regular event for all grades!” 

"Two Weeks And Counting: COVID The Musical” at High School

“Two Weeks and Counting: COVID The Musical,” written by New Rochelle High School Musical Theatre students, debuted last week at the Linda E. Kelly Theatre.

Students created choreography and wrote five songs and a 20-page original script exploring COVID and historical pandemics such as AIDS, swine flu, and Bubonic Plague. Students also studied masks and vaccines and how those issues presented themselves historically. Additionally, students transformed text messages into scenes, bringing real-life conversations to the stage.

Following the musical, Performing and Visual Arts Education (PAVE) students debuted an eighth season of original films, all inspired by poetry and containing original art designed by PAVE 2 art students. The films star the PAVE 3 students, and reflect the hard work of over 150 students.

Columbus Students Visit Yellowstone National Park

Columbus Elementary School second-graders took a trip to Yellowstone National Park in the Pacific Northwest – but didn’t miss a moment of school and there was no worry about gas prices!

Their visit, via Zoom, is part of the park’s Distance Learning Program, in which schools arrange for students to speak with, and learn from, a park ranger. Students learned about the park’s history, animals and even Old Faithful, its famous water geyser. Students asked questions that addressed their study of habitats and saw great sights as they had one of America’s top tourist attractions brought right into their school.

Support our Special Olympians Saturday, June 11

The sounds of a great crowd are just one source of energy for our New Rochelle Special Olympics athletes, the Pioneers. A track and field event is coming up at 9:30 a.m. this Saturday, June 11, at New Rochelle High School’s track, and your support is vital!

Click the flyer to learn more.

Hello, High School!

Albert Leonard Students Tour Their Next School

Albert Leonard Middle School students moving up to New Rochelle High School in September got a sneak peek at their next educational home during tours this week. The tours, as part of an orientation program, were led by the high school’s Ignite program mentors. New Rochelle High School Director of Athletics Steve Young, at left in the blue shirt, also greeted the students.

Tending to Amy’s Greenhouse

Amy’s Greenhouse at the Barnard Early Childhood Center is a cherished component of students’ educational experience, and it is kept in tip-top shape thanks to many, including dedicated custodian Derrick Burford! Amy’s Greenhouse focuses on science education and enables hundreds of children to participate in horticultural projects and celebratory events. It is a living memorial to Amy O’Doherty. The 23-year-old daughter of since-retired Barnard teacher Geraldine Davie, O'Doherty worked at Cantor Fitzgerald and perished in the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.

Playground Possibilities Ignite Action by Barnard Students

When students in Dana Eliasoph’s class at the Barnard Early Childhood Center saw an opportunity, they went right to the top to request action!

The students, demonstrating agency, engagement, and sharing their voice, wrote a letter to Superintendent Jonathan Raymond:

Dear Mr. Raymond: We need to add to our playground because more children need FUN! One reason we want to add to the playground is because there are four classes that play on the big playground and it is too many kids. Also, there is SO much space on the blacktop that you can add some swings! Thanks for reading this. We MUST add to the playground because we only have a small part… (This) will make us HAPPY!

Impressed by the students’ initiative, Superintendent Raymond visited the students this week, listened to their ideas, thanked them for their ingenuity and advocacy skills, and promised that the school district will review playground-expansion possibilities. In the photo, Raymond is kneeling at left in front of Principal Shelli Owens. Eliasoph is at center, with her enterprising class!

Trinity’s Character Parade Celebrates Reading

Trinity Elementary School held its first Character Parade last week, a school-wide celebration of reading that was a huge success! Students selected their favorite book character and completed a project. Kindergarteners and third-graders created hand-held puppets of their favorite characters. First- and second-graders created "wearable" posters of their characters. Students in grades four and five created setting/scenery posters from stories that included their favorite characters. Everyone in attendance felt Trinity's enthusiasm for literacy! Watch a video with Principal Michael Hilderbrand: https://bit.ly/3xpljln.

6,400 Pounds of Food Provided at Mobile Food Pantry

For the final time this school year, the Mobile Food Pantry returned to Isaac E. Young Middle School on Wednesday – and numerous families again benefitted from this joint sponsorship by the City School District of New Rochelle’s Pupil Personnel Services Department and Feeding Westchester.

Overall, 6,400 pounds of food were distributed to 126 guests, feeding a total of 523 people based on the number of family members reported by the visitors. This initiative has been crucial to local families; a healthy, consistent diet can help students in school and with their quality of life. Thank you to all who have been instrumental in assisting our community, including the partner organizations that attended: the New Rochelle Public Library, Project Hope, and Affinity Healthcare. In the first photo, Superintendent Jonathan Raymond, a frequent attendee at the pantries this school year, again showed his support by assisting volunteer teams serving the community. 

Schedule: Graduations and Moving-Up Ceremonies

Albert Leonard Middle School: June 22, 5 p.m., at the school.

Barnard Early Childhood Center: Second-Grade Moving-Up Ceremony, June 17, 11 a.m. Two tickets per family. "Drive Bye-Bye" June 22, 1 p.m. Families can drive their graduates past the school to wave goodbye to the staff.

Columbus Elementary School: Fifth-grade graduation, June 22, 9:30 a.m., soccer field (indoors if rain). Two guests per student.

George M. Davis Jr. Elementary School: Fifth-grade graduation, June 22, 1 p.m., auditorium and then the front campus. Three family seats per graduate indoors; no limit during the outdoor celebration.

Isaac E. Young Middle School: June 22 at 8:30 a.m. at the school. If rain or inclement weather, the ceremony will be in the New Rochelle High School gym at 8:30 a.m.

Jefferson Elementary School: Fifth-grade graduation, June 10, 9:30 a.m., auditorium. Kindergarten Stepping-Up Ceremony, June 17, 9 a.m., auditorium.

New Rochelle High School/Huguenot Academy: Graduation, June 23, 5 p.m., McKenna Field.

Trinity Elementary School: Kindergarten Moving-Up Ceremony: June 14, 9 a.m., outdoor ceremony on the Trinity blacktop (no tickets required). Rain date: June 16. Fifth-Grade Graduation: June 15, 9 a.m., outdoor ceremony on the Trinity blacktop (no tickets required). Rain date: June 17.

William B. Ward Elementary School: Kindergarten Moving-Up Ceremony: “A Morning with the Stars: Rolling out the Red Carpet for Kindergartners as They Step Up to First Grade!” Three guests per student.

• Monday, June 6: Class of Mrs. D'Ambrosio, 9 a.m.; Class of Mrs. Tatarka, 10:15 a.m.
• Tuesday, June 7: Class of Ms. Almonte, 9 a.m.; Class of Mrs. Riess, 10:15 a.m.
• Wednesday, June 8: Class of Mrs. Lezi, 9 a.m.; Class of Mrs. Tsiropinas, 10:15 a.m.
• Thursday, June 9: Class of Ms. Lavelli, 9 a.m.; Class of Ms. Albanese, 10:15 a.m.

Fifth-Grade Graduation:

• June 13 (rain date June 15): Classes of Mrs. Briscoe, Mr. Reid, Mrs. Wiesner, 9 a.m.; Classes of Ms. Farrell/Mr. Tarantino, 10:30 a.m.
• June 14 (rain date June 16): Classes of Mrs. Obligado, Mr. Fox, and Ms. Castellano, 9 a.m.; Classes of Ms. Ratigan, Ms. Cesa, Mrs. Kinches, 10:30 a.m.

To minimize Covid transmission, ceremonies will be outdoors and will take about 30 minutes. Students will come to school at their normal time. Each family will receive three tickets. Tickets will be sent home with students a couple of days before graduation. Families should park in the parking lot behind the school. After the ceremony, there will be a designated area with murals created by Daniel Henderson, known as “Signature Savage,” to take pictures, thanks to the PTA. Music teacher Robert Flanz will be in charge of music. Families can decorate their cars and bring balloons or flowers. 

Daniel Webster Elementary School: Fifth Grade Moving-Up Ceremony, June 21, 9:30 a.m., auditorium. Three tickets per family.

Final Exam and Overall Schedule for Middle Schools

Attention, Albert Leonard Middle School and Isaac E. Young Middle School communities!

Please see the Final Exam Schedule here.

High School Testing Schedule

New Rochelle High School’s Regents Examination schedule is posted here. Looking for the schedule for Advanced Placement testing at New Rochelle High School? The school’s website, under the Events tab, provides a full list. Visit https://nrhs.nred.org/o/nrhs/events.

Dozens of Students Learn About Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Saturday’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Fair at New Rochelle High School was a success, drawing about 50 students, including some from outside New Rochelle, who learned more about a variety of post-high-school educational opportunities and Greek organizations on campuses.

Representatives from Delaware State University, Clark Atlanta University, Fisk University, and Tennessee State University attended, and information was available from other schools, including Jackson State University, Lincoln University, Spelman College, Bethune-Cookman University, and North Carolina Central University.

The event was organized and advocated for by community members Joe Andrews, Myriam Decime, and Myrian Muhammad, who appreciate the collaboration of high school Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles and the school’s security and maintenance teams. They also thank all attendees, and are planning a larger event next fall.

New Offerings in Summer Learning Program

The City School District of New Rochelle is expanding its Summer Learning programs with new enrichment activities:

Learn With Leaders Program: Students who will be in grades 9-12 in September are eligible for this program taking place at New Rochelle High School. Learn more here, https://bit.ly/3x4aXGj, and enroll here: https://bit.ly/3m5V7Gf. Classes, limited to 20 students each, will be led virtually by an Ivy League instructor while students attend sessions, on site, at New Rochelle High School supported by school district faculty. Learn more in a letter written in both English and Spanish here.

Virtual Business Enterprises: The program challenges middle (Junior Virtual Enterprises) and high school (Virtual Enterprises) students to create a real business from “concept” to “start-up.” Classes of 20 students per section will be offered. Each class will be supported by a New Rochelle faculty member who will assist student teams as they participate in a virtual classroom. Classes will be offered at New Rochelle High School. Students who will be in middle school in September can register here: https://bit.ly/3McZIRi. Students who will be in high school in September can register here: https://bit.ly/3NV6pZT. Learn more in a letter in both English and Spanish here.

To learn more, email Dr. John Barnes ([email protected]) or Dr. Charles Coletti ([email protected]), administrators of the Summer Learning Program. Please see a story further below in this newsletter to learn about a variety of additional Summer Learning programs and activities.

Summer Learning Offers Array

of Opportunities for All Grades, Schools

The City School District of New Rochelle’s Summer Learning Program provides opportunities for students to build resilience and self-confidence while engaging in academic enrichment. The old model of remedial “summer school” has been replaced with a student-centered approach of “summer learning” built around student interest, teamwork, and a camp-like atmosphere.

The Summer Learning Program has several components:

Summer Stars: This program, for grades kindergarten through eight, seeks to increase student achievement in reading and math, equip students with developmentally appropriate social and emotional competencies, and engage students in creative and fun enrichment activities. The school district is partnering with the New Rochelle Boys & Girls Club and the Budding Buddhas yoga organization to support this program. Among the programs:

• Academic enrichment: The Summer Stars programs include mathematics, English Language Arts, Social and Emotional Learning, and Wellness/Thematic Enrichment. Invitations have been sent to students recommended by principals. For more information, contact your school’s project leader (information below).
• Rising Sixth-Grade Program: Runs Mondays through Thursdays from July 5-28 at Albert Leonard Middle School and/or New Rochelle High School for Isaac E. Young Middle School’s program. Mathematics, English Language Arts (ELA), Social and Emotional Learning, and Wellness/Thematic Enrichment. Invitations have been sent to students recommended by principals. For more information, contact your school’s project leader.



 Summer Stars information by school:

• Barnard Early Childhood Center: Rising kindergarten, grades 1, 2, and 3. Theme: Summer Bugs. Contact: Judy Badillo, [email protected].
• Columbus Elementary School: Rising grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Rising sixth-graders included in the program will attend the summer program offered at the student’s designated middle school for the 2022 - 2023 school year. Theme: Hands-On Research. Contact: Dan Cocciaridi, [email protected].
• George M. Davis Jr. Elementary School: Rising grade 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 and the district-wide Elementary School Extended School Year Program. Rising sixth-graders in the program will attend the Albert Leonard Summer Learning Program. Theme: Taking Care of Ourselves & Our Community. Contact: Vinny Caporaso, [email protected].
• Jefferson Elementary School: Rising grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Jefferson students. Rising sixth-graders included in the program will attend the summer program offered at the student’s designated middle school for the 2022 - 2023 school year. Jefferson students are slated to attend the Isaac E. Young Summer Learning Program. Theme: Nature Related to Sustainability & STEAM. Contact: Lucea Brea, [email protected].
• Trinity Elementary School: Rising grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Trinity students. Rising sixth-graders included in the program will attend the summer program offered at the student’s designated middle school for the 2022 - 2023 school year. Trinity students are slated to attend the Isaac E. Young Summer Learning Program. Theme: STEAM. Contact: Deirdre Dillon, [email protected].
• Ward Elementary School: Rising grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Ward students. Rising sixth-graders included in the program will attend the summer program offered at the student’s designated middle school for the 2022 - 2023 school year. Ward students are slated to attend the Albert Leonard Middle School Summer Learning Program. Theme: World Habitats. Contact: Jennifer Hofstetter, [email protected].
• Webster Elementary School: Rising grades 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Webster students. Rising sixth-graders included in the program will attend the summer program offered at the student’s designated middle school for the 2022 - 2023 school year. Webster students are slated to attend the Albert Leonard Middle School Summer Learning Program. Theme: Sustainability. Contact: Kathy Coyne, [email protected].
• Albert Leonard Middle School: Rising grades 6, 7, and 8 ALMS students. Rising ninth-graders will attend the summer program at New Rochelle High School, July 11-29. Theme: Graduation & Beyond. Contact: Matthew Lucero, [email protected].
• Isaac E. Young Middle School: Rising grades 6, 7, and 8 students. Rising ninth-graders will attend the summer program offered at New Rochelle High School from July 11-29. Theme: Mission Possible. Contact: Christopher Francaviglia, [email protected].

Additional Programs

• Rising Ninth-Grade Program: Runs Mondays through Fridays from July 11-29. For incoming ninth-graders recommended by their current school's principal. At New Rochelle High School. Covers mathematics, ELA, and Social-Emotional Learning/Wellness. Contact: Maureen Maire, [email protected].
• New Rochelle High School Credit Recovery Program: Runs July 11 through Aug. 12. Registration: June 28 to July 2 at the high school. For 10th, 11th, and 12th-graders who need to earn academic credits based on course failures. Contact: Maureen Maire, [email protected].

Summer Enrichment Programs

• Summer Music & Performing Arts, Aug. 1-25, New Rochelle High School. For rising third-, fourth- and fifth-grade students. Band and orchestra. One-to-one support and general music exploration. Contact: Deepak Marwah, [email protected].
• Pre-PAVE Theater & Art Prep Program, Aug. 1-25, New Rochelle High School. For rising eighth-graders. Instruction in dancing or acting, to gain insight into the PAVE (Performing and Visual Arts Education Program) audition process. Contact: Deepak Marwah, [email protected].

Please see the story further up in this Newsletter to learn about new enrichment programs. 

Planetarium Show:

Lessons Amid an Evening Under the Stars

Summer Solstice. The Summer Triangle. Gemini The Twins. Castor. Pollux.

Intrigued? Learn more at the next Planetarium Show at New Rochelle High School, June 22 at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Learn more in the flyer.

60/60 Challenge: Try the Week 6 Fitness Steps!

The 60/60 Challenge invites students, staff, and families to engage in physical activity for 60 minutes every day through June 30 to develop active lifestyle habits together. Physical activity promotes the three elements of wellness: mental, social, and physical health. Exercise helps children perform better in school and can lead to healthier, happy adults. Challenges are available every week on the 60/60 Challenge Website. Among the Week 6 Challenges: Eat items from the five food groups. Bake a healthy snack, breakfast, or dessert. Pack a healthy lunch. Move every day. Do jumping jacks to break up TV time.

Awards Night for Senior Athletes June 15

Accomplishments of New Rochelle High School’s senior athletes will be celebrated on Senior-Athlete Awards

Night Wednesday, June 15 in the Whitney Young Auditorium at 6:30 p.m. Come congratulate our talented sports stars!

Seniors Sign to Compete In College Sports

It was Signing Day at New Rochelle High School last Thursday, when several seniors signed letters committing them to compete in college athletics after strong careers in our high school sports program! Congratulations to:

• Jayden Barragan, Penn State Brandywine, Men's Soccer
• Jonathan Carsen, Manhattan College, Men's Swimming
• Emily Chin, Gettysburg College, Softball
• Michael Cohen, King’s College, Baseball
• Jonathan Fragoso, College of Mount Saint Vincent, Men's Soccer
• Claudia Goncalves, Felician University, Women's Lacrosse
• Rubi Gorospe, Manhattanville College, Women's Volleyball
• Daniel Madeira, SUNY Maritime College, Men's Soccer
• Sophia Pak, Babson College, Softball
• Damian Reyes, Western Connecticut State University, Men's Soccer
• Abi Salov, Fairleigh Dickinson University (Teaneck), Women's Lacrosse.

City School District of New Rochelle | nred.org