Community Update

June 14, 2024

Hello North Rockland Community,

It's been a picture-perfect week as we celebrated our students' achievements at the elementary moving-up ceremonies.

The end of the school year often leads a mix of emotions. Pride in the growth our students have made, and excitement for what's next, but also feelings of nostalgia for the teachers and classes that our children are leaving behind. It is a great time for us to celebrate the successes and prepare for what's next and as Dr. Seuss once said "Don't cry because it's over, smile that it happened."

Throughout the school year, our educators, staff, administrators, parents, families and students have demonstrated unwavering dedication and commitment to achieving outstanding results for our learners. The 2023-24 school year has truly been exceptional, demonstrating that the new approaches and chances we took were effective and impactful.

As we look to the future, I am filled with hope, especially for our school buildings and community spaces. We have made significant progress in upgrading our District over the last ten months without imposing excessive costs on our residents. We feel fortunate to have funded many of our facilities improvements and expanded student opportunities through grants which, with the help of our business office, have allowed our District to offer these improvements to our school community without raising the tax levy for five years.

I am happy to share that NR has secured another grant this week for $200,000 to overhaul the cafeteria at Haverstraw Elementary School. These upgrades will create a more inviting space that encourages healthy eating habits, social interaction and overall student well-being.

Our facilities, grounds and maintenance teams have been preparing our new stadium and field for the upcoming graduation. You'll see in today's update the amazing job they've done in-house to restore and rejuvenate our bleachers, resulting in significant savings. The red and white stands have never looked better, just in time for the Class of 2024's important moment.

Lastly, a reminder: all schools will be CLOSED on Wednesday, June 19 to observe the Juneteenth holiday. Upon our return, we will close out the final week of the school year. The last official day of the 2023-24 school year is Wednesday, June 26.

We have exactly seven days left in the school year, with five days until Fieldstone eighth graders move on to high school and six days until the class of 2024 graduates. We eagerly look forward to these monumental occasions filled with Raider Pride and graduates are reminded no matter where life leads, you are always a Raider and we are here for you!

Kris Felicello

Superintendent of Schools

The grounds and maintenance teams collaborated to revitalize the bleachers at the North Rockland High School Sports Complex stadium. Crews pressure-washed all surfaces before applying a fresh coat of #Raider #REDANDWHITE paint to the risers. The final step involved installing a ground weed barrier to prevent growth and aid with drainage underneath the structures. This restoration project ensured that the stands could be maintained during the construction of the new track and field. We are looking forward to seeing the bleachers filled and hearing the crowd cheer for our Class of 2024 during commencement!

This week NRCSD was notified that we will be a recipient of the $200,000 AmTab K-12 Food Court Furniture Grant through the School Nutrition Foundation. The district will use the grant to transform the Haverstraw Elementary School cafeteria into a welcoming environment that promotes healthy eating habits, social interaction and overall student well-being.

“We are so grateful for this grant to upgrade our cafeteria and further set the stage for good nutrition and student wellness at the elementary school,” said Ray Posillipo, School Lunch Director for North Rockland Central School District. “We will have an opportunity to modernize the furniture and create a more inviting and functional space, supporting our efforts to increase student participation in our school meal program.”

Out of 46 submissions from students all over the county, Nicolle Hernandez, a student at Haverstraw Elementary, was one of six chosen as award recipients in The Environmental Management Council of Rockland County creative arts contest.

Open to all 5th-grade students countywide, participants had to spend time outdoors and then create pieces about how living things, like plants, animals and humans, all work together and how nature impacts us. Everything is connected like a big, beautiful picture. Hernandez drew inspiration from her time outside at school and in the HES garden to draw that picture. Exploring the interconnectedness of all living things and the impact of human activity on nature Nicolle's award-winning poster was designed to demonstrate that the future of our world is in our hands! HES teacher Joshua Leigh joined County Executive Ed Day while she was presented with the Excellence Award Recognition this week, during the Eleanor Burlingham Earth Day Creative Arts Contest awards ceremony.

“Your incredible focus on our environment and some of the challenges already in front of us gives me hope that our green spaces are in good hands,” said County Executive Day. “These winners not only honor Ms. Burlingham's legacy by demonstrating an appreciation of the environment but also leave me proud to see the next generation’s deeply rooted commitment to the environment.”

For letting her creativity shine and celebrate the amazing connections in the world she is our Red Raider Recognition! Congratulate her here!

Hometown: Stony Point

NRHS Graduate: 2015

Profession: Professional Baseball Player

Time at North Rockland: Throughout his time at NRHS Dan Wirchansky always dedicated his time to the sport of baseball. In his senior year, the standout left-handed pitcher was named All-Section, All-League, League Pitcher of the Year and Spring Male Athlete of the Season for NR. The then high schooler dedicated many hours to practice, training and pitching performance, with sights set on playing the sport in college. His coaches shared he was a great example to other athletes and displayed an excellent work ethic. “On the mound, my numbers in high school were really good for a starter, I had a sub one my senior year,” he explained. His senior year pitching statistics included an undefeated record with 7 wins, WHIP - 0.71 and 60 strikeouts in 49 innings pitched with 68 K’s and gave up only 16 Hits with 3 Earned Runs. Danny did not give up an extra-base hit all year. His ERA was an impressive 0.55.

College Career: After graduating from NR, Dan pitched in college at Rockland Community College and Pace University. Wirchansky was a standout pitcher for the Setters posting a 6-2 record and a 1.38 earned run average in his senior season which included a historic 16-strikeout perfect game. The left-hander still holds the all-time Pace record for total career strikeouts with 230. He pitched professionally for the Rockland Boulders during college as well and went on to graduate from Pace in 2019.

Career Now: After being drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 2019 Major League Baseball (MLB) Amateur Draft, Wirchansky seemed destined for a professional career in baseball due to his outstanding college performance. However, multiple setbacks complicated his path to the MLB. Despite these challenges, the Rockland native persevered and played for the New York Boulders of the Frontier League in 2021. His impressive performance led to his selection for the Eastern Division All-Star Team in 2022, sparking the interest of several MLB franchises. Wirchansky's reputation as a formidable pitcher continued to soar, capturing the attention of numerous teams in the league. After making 21 appearances in the Puerto Rican Winter League (1.89 earned run average in 19 innings) Wirchansky returned to his previous status as an elite pitcher. News broke on Wirchansky signing a professional minor league contract with the Seattle Mariners earlier this year. Dan is pitching for the Mariners right now as a Double-A affiliate In Arkansas. To date, the pro has started eight games and has thrown over 40 innings.

Danny recently shared a deep dive on his entire journey and experience on the

90 Feet Away Podcast - Ep. 1: Danny Wirchansky - A Pitcher's Journey. He spoke about the challenges he encountered, such as anxiety and the emotional ups and downs of being signed, cut, undergoing a relaunch of his career after rehabbing and recovering from Tommy John surgery and where he is in his professional baseball career today. His resilience and determination are evident as he talks about overcoming obstacles and remaining focused on his love for the game.

Dan is living proof that you can achieve your WILDEST DREAMS. Never give up and never stop believing. Keep making us proud!

Attribution

Image: https://www.lohud.com/picture-gallery/sports/high-school/baseball/2015/05/15/north-rockland-defeats-suffern-11-1/27413283/

Date: May 15, 2015

Creator: Lohud

ALL SCHOOLS CLOSED JUNE 19

Fieldstone Middle

• June 14 - Last Day for Period 9 Activities
• June 17 - Yearbook Distribution, 8th Grade Awards Ceremony at 7PM FMS Auditorium
• June 18 - 8th Grade Field Trip to Kruckers at 8:30AM, 7th Grade Field Day 10AM – Noon
• June 21 - Math 7x Final - During Classes
• June 24 - Science 7X Final - During Classes
• June 24 - Grade 8 Moving Up Ceremony at 9AM Clover Field Stadium

Farley Elementary

• June 20 - FES Art Walk Show at 6PM

Haverstraw Elementary

• June 14 - Grade 6 Moving up Ceremony 9AM (Metress, Gonzalez, Pentimone, Arvidson, Feliz)

• June 21 - HES Talent Show

Stony Point Elementary

• June 17 - Grade 3 Moving-Up Ceremonies 9:30-10:30AM Clarke, LaBier & Osberg
• June 18 - Grade 3 Moving-Up Ceremonies 9:30-10:30AM Reiss, Strieter, Hilliard
• June 20 - Grade 3 Moving-Up Ceremonies 9:30-10:30AM Accetta, Dittman & Dominguez
• June 21 - 3rd Grade PTA Fun Day
• June 24 - Kindergarten Sing-a -Long w/ Mr. Kurt & Grade 2 Spring Fun Day
• June 25 - Grade 1 Bubble Bus 9:30-11:00AM, Lloyd & Fiorentino Animal Show - 9:30-10:30AM & Grade 3 Yearbook signing 10AM-12PM Pavilion
• June 26 - ICT classes Forever Friends End Of Year Celebration student only event

Thiells Elementary

• June 25 - Gr 3 Clap out 11:15AM

West Haverstraw Elementary

• June 18 - 3rd Grade Moving Up Ceremony 9:30AM (Ms. Hoyt, Mrs. Verrino, Ms. Marciano, Ms. Rodriguez, Ms. Guzman) 3rd Grade Moving Up Ceremony 11:15AM (Mrs. DelValle, Mrs. Violetti, Mr. Tillman, Mrs. O’Keefe, Mrs. Amodeo)
• June 20 - Kindergarten End of Year Celebration 9:45AM (Mrs. Flores, Ms. Diliberto, Mrs. Dillon, Mrs. Iarocci)
• June 21 - Kindergarten End of Year Celebration 9:45AM (Mrs. Zivec, Mrs. Golio, Mrs. Woodhead, Mrs. Wallace)
• June 24 - Kindergarten End of Year Celebration 9:45AM (Mrs. Bipat and Mrs. Honrbeck (Long term sub: Ms. Mazariego)
• June 25 - 3rd Grade Yearbook Signing (pavilion and back playground) 10:30AM Student only event
• June 25 - Kindergarten Splash Day (Fish Playground) 10AM Student only event

At the NRTA Scholarship Tea, future graduates highlighted and thanked teachers who made a difference in their lives through powerful essays. Our North Rockland educators are the best around and have a profound impact on students, shaping their intellectual and personal development through their dedication, patience and caring support. Selected seniors had the opportunity not only to read their papers in person to the instructors whose influence went beyond the classroom but also to be awarded with a scholarship. The nominations are kept a secret until the student announces it during their speech. The emotion of the night was a great reminder of the importance of excellent teachers. Full Story/More Photos.

The Academy of Health and Sciences celebrated an incredible year of growth! This class really are trailblazers for North Rockland, as they were the first to take a trip to Westchester Medical to meet with their leadership team, top doctors in various fields of medicine, nurses and pharmacists. They explored pathways, apprenticeship opportunities and day-to-day operations of the hospital through the partnership. The group has mastered using state-of-the-art technology to integrate health education with math and science. They used 4D Motion, a cutting-edge sensor, movement and data recording technology to practice physical therapy and rehabilitation at length. Our departing seniors also completed a year-long mini-medical college with Dr. Richard Evans, which gave them hands-on experience in medical techniques, tools, examinations and procedures. More Photos.

NRHS’ Academy of Finance got together at Patriot Hills to celebrate the twenty-third graduating class of the academy. Students, teachers, families, donors, Superintendent Felicello, BOE Members Ida Mannine, Mary Romano and James Kraus all came together for a memorable night in the dining hall. Advisor, Tim Ahle spoke about how the Academy of Finance is truly a family, with many donors being previous students and how students have landed jobs with alumni of the AoF. The AoF Advisory Board and other donors presented the students with scholarships and medals. More Photos.

The Academy of Engineering recently hosted a showcase event, inviting parents to witness the innovative projects their students have been diligently working on and to highlight the seniors. The event featured the “Senior Projects,” in which each student picked their own avenue of interest, and then brought it from concept to reality. The event featured a variety of impressive creations, from robotics to renewable energy models. More Photos.

WHES first-grade students took a trip to Bowline Park, where the Haverstraw Police Department and Rockland County Sheriff's Office hosted a variety of entertaining stations for the students. The event featured engaging activities like taking an aerial picture with a drone, checking out equipment and getting to pet the horses. They even got to try out the lights and sirens! This allows the students to engage with the officers and learn about their important roles in the community. Thank you Haverstraw Police Department and Rockland County Sheriff's Office for making this day special for the Red Raiders! More Photos.

To celebrate our students who earned grand champion status, Math Coach, Eileen Robusto promised hot pizzas and an epic in-school luncheon for the programs' top scholars. First In Math is an online math practice tool that leverages students' interest in online gaming to improve their math skills and engage with the subject. The range of games available caters to various skill levels, from basic math fact review to understanding math concepts and even learning coding. Students earn stickers all year for practicing math facts, developing number sense and using math strategies to complete challenges.

As Robusto entered the local Lane's Deli & Pizza to order lunch she told them about her student's 10,000+ stickers and the achievements Willow Grove's top players earned to be recognized as Grand Champions.“While I was in Lane's deli ordering the pizza, the impressed owner of Caruso & Son Home Improvement heard me and he generously paid for all of the pizza,” Robusto explained. The sweet sentiment and story of awesome NR Community members had positive ripple effects on the group during their festivities. Everyone agreed there's no community like NR! Congratulate the #MathChamps!

The Senior Barbecue was a memorable day for the graduating class, filled with laughter, games and delicious food. The soon-to-be graduates enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere where they could unwind, play various games and munch on some tasty barbecue. It was the perfect opportunity for seniors to bond with their peers one last time before graduation, creating lasting memories and celebrating their achievements together! More Photos.

Kerry Finnerty is our LADY RAIDER OF THE WEEK Reeling off a huge Section One championship, Finnerty scored a combined 4-9 at the plate with a double, two singles, and three runs in the two playoff games leading up to the Regional Finals. Defensively she had six putouts, one assist, and NO errors helping the NR softball team advance to the Regional Championship game. Kerry is a first-year starter on varsity at shortstop and has transitioned into the position phenomenally this year. She finished the season with a .325 Batting average with seven doubles, 14 RBI's, and 25 runs scored in our leadoff spot. Her coaches said, “To say we are proud of Kerry is an understatement. She has made some very big plays for us this season! We can't wait to see what her next two years bring!! ”Kerry is a sophomore who was a part of the varsity softball team at North Rockland High School!!! Let’s make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Kerry!!

Claudel Chery is our RED RAIDER OF THE WEEK!! Claudel is a sophomore on the boys spring varsity track and field team at North Rockland High School!! Over the weekend, Claudel amongst 17 other teammates qualified to compete at States in Syracuse in both a Division 1 and Federation level. Chery qualified specifically for the 3200m which is an almost two-mile race with him finishing in second place in the Division 1 race and then placed fifth during the Federation race with a time of 9:03.98, which was his fastest time all season. Other than the 3200m, Claudel has participated individually in the 800m, 1600m, and 1 mile, as well as participating in the 400m relay and 1 mile relay. Claudel is also a part of the winter track and field team and runs cross country in the fall. He is a three-season impressive athlete who will definitely continue to make his mark over the next few years!! Let’s make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Claudel!!

NRCSD has partnered with the United States Tennis Association - USTA CTA (Official) to host a FREE Community Tennis Day on Saturday, June 15, from 9-12pm with professionally trained tennis coaches for all ages and abilities, helping kids build friendships and learn skills they’ll use for life. No sign-up is required.

During the event the USTA and its partners like CTA help children not just learn the sport, but self-confidence, sportsmanship and the habits of an active healthy lifestyle. The USTA has been working closely with #NRSchools in 2023-24. We thank them for organizing this day for our community.

**A signed waiver is required upon arrival.**

Sessions:

1. 9am-10am - Cardio Tennis Ages 14+ Cardio tennis is a high-energy group fitness class that combines tennis with cardiovascular exercise. It's a fun and social activity that's suitable for players of all ages and abilities. Cardio tennis can help you improve your tennis skills, get fit, and burn more calories than singles or doubles tennis.
2. 10am-12pm - Tennis Clinics Ages 5-17 First hour instructional. The second hour will consist of fun tennis games like pancakes, fireworks, jailbreak, snakes in the alley and relay races etc.

Chromebook Care

Getting a Parent Portal account

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!

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.

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