
Community Update
June 27, 2025

COMMUNITY UPDATE
Hello North Rockland Families!,
Today marks the end of the 2024-25 academic year in North Rockland. As we close the books on another memorable school year, I am filled with gratitude and pride for all we’ve accomplished together during the past ten months. It’s been a year of growth, perseverance and achievement - and, I couldn’t be more proud of our Red Raiders.
On Tuesday night, we braved the early summer heat and celebrated the North Rockland High School Class of 2025 at Casarella Field at Cordisco Stadium. These graduates have spent hundreds of hours working toward this defining moment. This year, our NRCSD grads were accepted into 329 colleges, universities, trade and apprenticeship programs and military branches - a testament to their hard work and commitment to learning. To our seniors: keep reaching for your dreams and always remember: “Once a Red Raider, always a Red Raider.”
We also recognized our Fieldstone Middle School eighth graders this week during a moving-up ceremony at Clover Stadium, officially welcoming the NRHS Class of 2029. You’ve grown so much and this is only the beginning of your journey. We can’t wait to see what you achieve next!
From our youngest Pre-K Panthers to our NRHS graduates - congratulations! And, to the parents, caregivers and families who stood beside you every step of the way - thank you for your unwavering support!
A heartfelt thank you also goes to our North Rockland Buildings and Grounds and Technology team members. They worked tirelessly this week in the extreme heat to prepare for our high school commencement and to keep our schools operating safely during challenging conditions. From equipment set-up to ensuring that every learning and working space was cool and safe, their efforts made a tremendous difference. I also want to recognize our K-3 staff members for going above and beyond to keep our youngest learners safe, hydrated and comfortable in buildings that were not yet air conditioned. By this time next year, all of our school buildings are on track to be fully air conditioned, thanks to the progress of our ongoing capital projects.
I also deeply appreciate our families' patience and cooperation during this week’s heat wave and the recent water main break in the Stony Point area. We’re especially grateful for everyone’s understanding as Stony Point Elementary students were safely transported to NRHS for the afternoon while the issue was resolved.
Thank you to the families, educators and staff who cheered on our students from the sidelines, classrooms and living rooms - thank you. Your support, encouragement and partnership have made a meaningful difference in every child’s experience. North Rockland thrives because of your care and commitment.
To our community partners - local organizations, first responders and civic leaders - thank you for supporting our school events, offering real-world learning opportunities and simply showing up. Your presence has strengthened our district and helped shape experiences our students will never forget.
As we bid farewell to this school year and welcome summer, I encourage all students to keep reading, stay curious and explore the world around them. Whether you’re traveling, learning something new or spending time with family, we encourage you to embrace the opportunities this season brings. Books, nature, museums and even quiet reflection can all lead to powerful learning and growth.
Wishing you a safe, joyful and restful summer. We look forward to welcoming you back in the fall, ready for a new year full of opportunity, inspiration and Red Raider pride.
Kris Felicello
Superintendent of Schools
#PointsofPride - Class of 2025!
It was the hottest night of the year — but the Class of 2025’s spirit burned even brighter. With Casarella Field at Cordisco Stadium packed to the brim with proud families, friends, and community members, our Red Raiders proved once again that no challenge can stop them.
“Our time here has taught us more than just academic knowledge. We’ve learned the value of friendships, the importance of perseverance, and the power of dreams.” — Valedictorian Brayden Mariconi
“Whether high school felt like a stepping stone or a mountain to climb, we are all here together despite the personal challenges, academic pressures, or moments of doubt.” — Salutatorian Giuliana Leone
“I am so very proud of each and every one of you. As a North Rockland High School graduate, the amount of Raider Pride I feel today is overwhelming.” — Principal Lauren DaPonte
To the Class of 2025 — we’re so proud of your journey, and we can’t wait to see where your dreams take you next. Once a Red Raider, always a Red Raider.
Around the District
FMS is Moving Up!
Over 600 Fieldstone Middle School students took the field at Clover Stadium for their Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony! Congratulations to the FMS Class of 2025 and their families on this exciting milestone! View more pictures HERE!
WGES Color Run
A splash of color and a whole lot of fun! Students at Willow Grove Elementary laced up for a Color Run, in memory of WGES Music Teacher Meridith Stevens. View more pictures HERE!
Origins of Excellence Trip
This summer, ten amazing NRHS seniors will take part in the New York State Education Department Origins of Excellence program — a fully funded cultural immersion experience in the Dominican Republic! Students will explore Dominican history, meet national leaders and grow as bilingual, bicultural leaders View more pictures HERE!
Summer Programs
Neary Educational Center Extended School Year (ESY)
ESY will take place from Monday, July 7, 2025 to Friday, August 15, 2025 at the Neary Educational Center, 20 George Street, Haverstraw NY 10927. The program hours are from 8:30 am - 2:00 pm. Please note that there is a prescription form required for students who receive related services such as Occupational Therapy and/or Physical Therapy according to their IEP. This form needs to be signed by the pediatrician’s office and faxed, emailed or mailed to our office at 845-942-3495.
North Rockland High School Summer School
NRHS Summer School will be in session from July 9 through August 18, 2025.
NRHS Summer College Planning Workshops
Class of 2026 students are invited to participate in Summer College Planning Workshops at NRHS to get a head start on the application process. Participants should bring a charged Chromebook. Topics covered will include: what to expect in the college application process, identifying colleges to apply to, college essay writing, resume building, completing the Common Application, how to navigate financial aid and more! Click here for dates and registration information.
Leadership Transitions
As the school year closes, we extend heartfelt thanks and best wishes to several of our building leaders who are retiring or stepping into new roles within the district.
At Fieldstone Middle School, Assistant Principal Ed Garcia concludes a dedicated 30 year career in NRCSD, with Trevor Brookins stepping in as his successor.
At Thiells Elementary, we say goodbye to Principal Peter DiBernardi as he retires after 27 years and welcome Amy Prudente as the new principal. Filling Amy’s previous role as TES Assistant Principal is Rudelina Murray.
At Haverstraw Elementary, Tiffany Bergen will be taking on a new districtwide role as MTSS Coordinator. Tamara O’Sullivan will serve as the new HES Assistant Principal in her place.
We also welcome Christopher Moore to North Rockland High School as an Assistant Principal, following the retirement of John Kolesar.
Kelley Herrmann has been named Director of Alternative Education at the NRHS Extension.
At the Neary Educational Center, Christopher Frank has stepped into the role of Principal after Avis Shelby’s retirement earlier this year.
We are grateful for the service of those moving on and look forward to the leadership and vision of those stepping in. More updates to come.
Summer Meal Program
North Rockland Central School District's Summer Meal Program begins serving meals July 7 and will continue through August 15, 2025.
Free Summer Meals are provided from state funding. Summer Meals are Free for children 18 & under. No registration is needed.
There are 3 open sites offering Free Summer Meals. All sites will provide breakfast and lunch, and all meals must be consumed on-site. Summer Meals are served Monday through Friday. See location details below:
North Rockland High School - Annex
106 Hammond Road, Thiells, NY 10984
Fieldstone Middle School - Cafeteria B
100 Fieldstone Drive, Thiells, NY 10984
Haverstraw Elementary School
16 Grant Street, Haverstraw, NY 10923
Interested in a job in Food Service? We're Hiring! Visit https://www.northrockland.org/departments/human-resources to learn more about these opportunities!
North Rockland Food Pantry & Boutique
The North Rockland Food pantry at will be open at the Neary Educational Center, 20 George Street, Haverstraw NY 10927 on Thursdays on the following dates by appointment:
- July 3,
- July 10,
- July 24,
- July 31,
- August 7,
- and August 14
Families should contact the following Family Resource Coordinator in July (Miriam Avila at 845-521-2385) and in August (Maria Moronta 845-587-0062) to visit the Food Pantry or receive any additional support throughout the summer.
Brain Balancers
As June closes, we’ve reflected on our school year, using self-reflection as a tool for personal growth. We explored valuable strategies like the Mood Meter, emotion regulation and communication skills, focusing on themes like belonging and empathy. These lessons helped us grow personally, strengthen friendships and become changemakers. Now, we’re curious: Which of these will you carry into the next school year and why? View the activity HERE!
District-Provided School Supplies for 2025-2026 School Year
As we look ahead to the 2025-2026 school year, North Rockland continues its commitment to supporting families and ensuring every student starts the year ready to learn. Once again, the District will provide general school supplies for elementary students, helping to ease the burden on families and set our students up for success from day one. More information will be shared as we get closer to September.
Athletics
Throwback Tuesday
State Champion Celebration...Part 2!
Almost Forgot That This Was the Whole Point
Check out our favorite video moments of the school year that had us shedding a few tears HERE!
End of the 2024-25 School Year
Check out our favorite photo moments of the school year that had us reminiscing on great times HERE!
Senior Spotlights
Softball
We’re shining the light on our three incredible Softball seniors as they round the bases on their North Rockland journey! Check out their spotlights as we celebrate all they’ve accomplished and the legacy they leave behind! We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors. View the spotlights HERE!
Girls Golf
We’re teeing off our next Senior Spotlight with Girls Golf! Our seniors have led the way with focus, sportsmanship, and dedication on the course and beyond. Check out their achievements and celebrate all they’ve contributed to the program! View the spotlights HERE!
Baseball
We’re stepping up to the plate with our final Senior Spotlight with some of our players from Varsity Baseball! These seniors have brought leadership, grit and Red Raider pride to every inning. View the spotlights HERE!
Athletic Events
Season Recap
Fall Season
From the first whistle to the final buzzer, our Red Raiders left it all on the field, court, course, mat and pool! Take a look at the incredible stats that defined a season filled with dedication, teamwork and Raider Pride! Let’s hear it for our student-athletes, coaches and supporters who made this fall unforgettable! View the stats HERE!
Winter Season
From buzzer-beaters to personal bests, our Red Raiders brought the heat all winter long! Swipe through to see the standout stats, milestones and moments that defined a season of hustle, heart, and Raider resilience. Thank you to our athletes, coaches and Red Raider fans for making it one to remember! View the stats HERE!
Fall Sports Tryout Schedule
Online registration opens for Fall Sports on Friday, July 25, 2025! See the schedules below for middle school and high school tryouts. Times and locations are subject to change.