Community Update

May 19, 2023

Hello North Rockland Families:

On Tuesday, May 16 our community unanimously approved the district’s $272 million spending plan and Proposition 2. The budget passed this year with an 80 percent majority (2,973 ‘yes’ votes) letting us know that you recognize the great job we are doing on behalf of the children of NR.

The 2023-24 budget enhances or expands current academic programs, adds critical student supports and extracurricular activities and maintains all staff. Keeping the tax levy at 0%, the District has saved local taxpayers a cumulative $37 million over the last four years. You can read more in the Community Budget Letter.

The Board of Education and Central Administration worked diligently to create a fiscally responsible budget that guaranteed our students not only the same level of service next year as they received this year, but even more.

Secondary learners will once again benefit from a full offering of elective, college level and advanced placement courses at North Rockland High School. The programs will not only increase students' readiness for college and career opportunities, but they will provide students with college credit and those "21st Century Skills" sought after in the job markets of today and the future.

With that being said, please take a look at our “Getting to Know NRHS Academies” video series being highlighted each week through the end of the year. The Academies are unique to NR and are looking for partnering companies, organizations and community institutions to involve North Rockland students in summer and after-school employment or internship opportunities. Young adults become their best when they learn, work and train with the best!

As a reminder, on May 25 North Rockland High School and NRHS EXT will dismiss at 10:20 am. This was adjusted to be earlier than the usual half-day dismissal time to accommodate the Grade 8 Fieldstone Middle School students visiting that morning for their new school orientation.

The end of the school year and adoption of the budget for the next, invites an opportunity to pause and celebrate successes. Throughout this week and the ones to follow through June we are ushering in a time to be more present, to more fully acknowledge the moments, thoughts and emotions that are an important part of moving forward.

In closing I would like to congratulate all three of our school board members who retained their seats. Deborah Gatti, James Kraus and Peggy Zugibe were re-elected to the North Rockland Board of Education. The terms begin July 1, 2023 and run through June 30, 2026.

North Rockland’s Academy of Music is a program of study for students in grades 11-12 who wish to broaden their knowledge and stimulate their passion for Music in a more defined and engaging way, seeking to connect what they learn in school to that which they learn outside of school. The Academy of Music will help students investigate various music career paths, broaden their knowledge of music, explore the necessary skills needed for college music performance at major and nonmajor levels, bolster their college profile, as well as learning how to access local community music groups to foster lifelong love and learning of music.

The North Rockland High School Academy of Music is looking for partnering companies and organizations to provide summer and after-school employment or internship opportunities for North Rockland students. The students have excellent academic and interpersonal skills that could benefit any employer. For additional information, please contact Sean McHugh at smchugh@northrockland.org.

NRCSD is excited to announce that Edcamp Rockland (the unconference) will be held on June 3, 2023 at Fieldstone Middle School from 9:30 am - 1 pm. This year's theme is "Educators are ONE-IN A-MELON!" All interested Rockland educators and beyond are invited to attend the free day of collaborative shared educational experiences for K-12 teachers led by teachers.

• Edcamp is a FREE, participant-driven, shared educational experience open to all interested educators.
• Food and beverages will be provided and there'll be lots of swag and amazing sponsored prizes.

Join us on Saturday, June 3rd for an exciting, shared learning experience!

To register for Edcamp Rockland visit our Eventbrite page.

NRCSD knows youth develop a positive image of police and officers when they are seen, known and respected. In turn our NR Strong partnerships aid in building trust with the community which is fundamental to effective policing.

West Haverstraw Elementary students kicked off their weekend with some exploration and fun courtesy of the Haverstraw Police Department and the Rockland County Sheriff's Office. Learners boarded buses for a special field trip to one of communities most beautiful parks, Bowline Point. There they were greeted by dozens of officers in uniforms, K9 Karma, flashing lights, music and several engaging learning stations. Full story and more photos.

Red Raiders got creative for day three of NRHS’s Senior Spring Spirit Week! The Wild Wednesday challenge was to use “Anything But a Bookbag” to carry their books, lunches and school necessities... and the Class of 2023 did not disappoint! Some of our favorites making their way through the hallways were a mini shopping cart, chefs pot, skateboard, pet carrier and even a fan! Now through the end of June we are making the most of every second #NRTogether and #NRStrong! More photos.

If you had to dress up as your favorite school faculty member, what would you look like? That is what the #NR Seniors had to contemplate while participating in Spirit Week’s “Dress Up As Your Favorite Faculty” Day.

As you can see, there were many great outfits, but the clear cut fan favorite was Ty Diaz’ rendition of Principal Deponte. The hair and outfit were on point, but the overall essence is where he nailed it. Students had to do a double take when they saw Mia Lupo, who was dressed in a police uniform as a nod to SRO Lupo, who also happens to be her Dad. Some students kept it low key, as their favorite art teacher. Some music students kept it simple, yet classy, with their black slacks and blue button down as Mr. McHugh. More photos.

This week we celebrate our NRHS Class of 2023 and the prestigious schools, trades, services and careers they’ve chosen as the next destination on their journey. One thing's for certain, these RED RAIDERS are destined for greatness at some very prestigious colleges, universities and trade schools!

We are thankful that North Rockland Board of Education member James Kraus shares his passion for education, the arts and the environment and his community with our school community!

His fact for students and parents is a Leonardo da Vinci quote: “To develop a complete mind: Study the science of art; Study the art of science. Learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.”

“I admire North Rockland’s diverse student body and its continual effort to advance the creativity and effectiveness of its broad array of courses.” The longtime BOE member and Stony Point resident explained. “The specialized focus on a strong ESL program, student mental and physical health, safety, and citizenship awareness is admirable. Just as important are the variety of extra-curricular activities including strong sports, art, music, varied clubs, and theater.”

James was first elected to the North Rockland Board in 2008 and currently serves as Trustee. He works with local environmental preservation groups to protect parks and the riverfront, ensuring our kids have access to great places to explore as well as supporting District cleanup and Green Team opportunities.

Kraus is always advocating for ways to advance our schools in the arts, theatre, language offerings and beyond. Before joining the BOE, he was active on SIPT (School Improvement Planning Team) and other school activities, which he still encourages. Thank you for your dedication!

The district is opening a limited number of enrollment spots for Camp Adventure, a district summer enrichment program. This program is for current 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students. The camp will run weekdays from July 10-28 from 9AM-3PM at Fieldstone Middle School. Breakfast, lunch and transportation will be provided.

If you would like your child to be considered for the program, please make sure:

• Your child is in 2nd, 3rd, 4th or 5th grade.
  
• Has not already been selected for the program.
  
• Is not enrolled in any other summer program.

The survey will close on Wednesday, May 31. You will be notified of enrollment status through the email used to complete this survey by Wednesday, June 7. Survey link.

Help us support and honor local veterans!

Our mission is one of gratitude. For their service, sacrifice and selflessness. Join us as we proudly celebrate and raise funds for Hudson Valley's Veterans day of honor in our nation’s capital. From May 1-12 all K-12 PE classes will start running, skipping and walking laps to "Help a veteran get a flight” to Washington D.C. on May 20, 2023.

We are asking our school community and parents to sponsor students PE laps to support our local veterans on www.mybooster.com. You can donate per lap or do a flat donation. You can register on the Booster website. Thank you in advance for your donation!

Please nominate ANY U.S. Veteran from any branch of the military on www.hvhonorflight.com.

NRHS students will be joining vets May 20 at Westchester Airport to send them off with handwritten letters to share in D.C.

Let’s give them a flight to remember #NRTogether and #NRStrong!

Various colleges and universities will be visiting North Rockland High School to provide information sessions for students. These sessions will be great opportunities to connect with admissions representatives and learn about program offerings. Scan the QR codes on the flyer to register to attend the sessions. Flyer link.

As the American Cancer Society’s childhood cancer initiative, Gold Together empowers individuals to help raise funds to directly support research, education, advocacy, and services, as well as promote cancer prevention efforts that could reduce children’s risk for cancer later in life. Jelien celebrated as a 7yr old on April 16, 2023 her 2nd year being cancer free! She has also continued doing fundraisers.

Chromebook Care

Getting a Parent Portal account

• The November Issue has updated information on K-6 Report Card procedures and information about obtaining professional development.

Click here for the Flocabulary One-Pager!

• Want to see tutorials, make an appointment with a technology coach, and see available tech courses Click Here!

Important reminder for the 2023/2024 school year.

The North Rockland Central School District maintains strict compliance with New York State Immunization laws. New York State Public Health Law, Section 2164 requires that schools will not permit a child to attend school unless the parent provides the school with a certificate of immunization or proof from a physician, nurse practitioner or physician's assistant that the child is in the process of receiving the required immunizations. More Information.

Last week, the Varsity Boys Golf Team were crowned county champs. Help us in congratulating these NR stars!

Kevin Devine is our #REDRAIDEROFTHEWEEK! The NR senior athlete has been a stand out on the Varsity Boys Lacrosse team. "Kevin has led us to a 13-3 regular season including a League and County Championship back to back years!" Coach Kenny Rose shared. Devine hit a milestone recently in a game against Tappan Zee, where he held the net and officially recorded his 1000th - yes you read that right - 1000th CAREER SAVE!! Quite an accomplishment to reach prior to high school graduation. In addition to having a red hot season Devine is currently the reigning Rockland County Player of The Year from 2022. His coach added that the Red Raiders will miss him dearly when he moves on to play Division 1 lacrosse at Providence College in the Fall. "Kevin has been our starting goalie since 7th grade!" he recalled. We know he's destined for great things and will make us proud at the next level. It is for all these reasons he is our Red Raider to watch this week! Let's make some #REDANDWHITE noise for Kevin!

Molly Craffey is our #LADYRAIDEROFTHEWEEK! The determined sophomore plays number one position on our Girls Varsity Golf team! She recently just won the Rockland County Championship at Rotella Golf Club with a front nine score of 41. Her drives helped propel the Red Raiders into taking home 2nd place overall. Molly finished her season with an impressive golf scoring differential below 18, which qualifies her for the section 1 NY State tournament. She is a versatile, kind and driven two sport athlete, as she also plays for the Girls Volleyball Team as well. Off the field she's just as unstoppable, in the classroom she maintains 4.0 GPA. For all these reasons we are so proud to share that she is our pick as Lady Raider to watch! Let's make some #REDANDWHITE noise for Molly!

Athletics Update

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

NORTH ROCKLAND ATHLETICS

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS (MODIFIED GRADES 7-8)

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS- GRADES 9-12

JULY 21, 2023 ONLINE REGISTRATION OPENS FOR FALL SPORTS

Athletics Store

Our unique online store offers athletic apparel totally dedicated to NR athletics with a share of the sale proceeds going to our dept.

Thank you all again for support of NR Athletics!

https://north-rockland-athletics-powered-by-fleet-fundraising.myshopify.com/

Please check the NR Athletics website for schedules, information and updates.

Follow us on Twitter @NRockathletics

Be sure to check NR Athletics Website for Schedules and information.

Click here for starting dates for: Winter Sports 2022-23, and Spring Sports 2023.

North Rockland has partner with Hi-Tor Animal Shelter to feature one dog and one cat to help them find a loving home each week. Check out the Shelter Wish List linked here. Red Raiders to the Rescue!!!

Meet Penelope! Penelope is a one year old tabby with beautiful white patches! She loves to be scratched and pet and loves to cuddle. Although Penelope has some incontinence issues, she has such a young and playful personality that is truly contagious. You will definitely fall in love once you meet her! If you are interested in adopting her, please go to www.hitor.org to fill out an application.

Meet Red! Red is an 8 month to a year old Vizsla mix, sweet young boy, who is in search of his forever home. He is still very puppy-like so he would benefit from continuing his training even after being adopted. He is energetic, playful and goofy, so small children are not recommended. Teenage to adult home only. He’s learning how to walk properly on a leash and will need to continue leash training. He is a smart and clever boy who will work for treats! If you are interested in adopting him, please go to www.hitor.org to fill out an application.

At North Rockland Central School District we take internet safety very seriously. It is important that we all have access to information on how to keep our students safe. Here are a few web resources:

1. Common Sense Media - click here

2. Connect Safely - click here

3. Internet Safety Tips - click here

The NRCSD has partnered with Peachjar. This new platform will enable us to send important school and community flyers to parents/guardians digitally, saving our schools time, money, and paper. School-approved digital flyers will be sent to your email inbox. Please click here for more information.

The District is looking for more great employees to work with our students. If you are looking for a rewarding position, please consider applying with NRCSD further below in today’s update. Please click on the job image to apply through the District Form.

The North Rockland Central School District is seeking candidates for several Teaching Assistant positions for the 2022-2023 school year. These are full-time positions which include a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Valid NYS teaching or teaching assistant certification is required.

Apply now on https://www.olasjobs.org/

North Rockland is currently seeking candidates for full-time and part-time Security Aide positions for the 2022-2023 school year. School Security Aides are committed to ensuring students are learning in a safe and supportive environment.

Full-time positions include - A regionally competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Part-time positions are - 4.5 hours per day and starting pay is $19.83/hour.

**Candidates with prior law enforcement, security or military experience are preferred.**

Applications can be submitted on OLAS at olasjobs.org. Resumes can be submitted through our Facebook job posting linked here, sent to Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources and Community Relations Mr. Eric Baird, North Rockland CSD, 65 Chapel St., Garnerville, NY 10923 or emailed to ebaird@northrockland.org.

The North Rockland (Haverstraw-Stony Point) Central School District is seeking candidates for Food Service Helper positions at various school buildings for the 2022-2023 school year. The starting rate of pay is $14.28/hour. Apply here

The North Rockland (Haverstraw-Stony Point) Central School District is seeking candidates for School Nurse substitutes for the 2021-2022 school year. All candidates must be licensed as a Registered Professional Nurse. The starting rate of pay is $150 per day. Candidates can apply here.

Haverstraw Transit has informed us that they are currently seeking and accepting applications for: DRIVERS AND MONITORS. Apply here.

2022-23 School Start, End and Bell Times ⏰

Grades K-3: 9:05AM - 3:44PM

Stony Point Elementary

Thiells Elementary

West Haverstraw Elementary

Grades 4-6: 8:42AM - 3:21PM

Farley Elementary

Haverstraw Elementary

Willow Grove Elementary

Fieldstone Middle School: 8:00AM-2:46PM

Bell Schedule

North Rockland High School: 7:20AM-2:06AM

Bell Schedule

SCHOOL MENUS

Elementary Lunch Menu

Upper Elementary Lunch Menu

Fieldstone Middle School Lunch Menu

North Rockland High School Lunch Menu