Community Update

March 15, 2024

In North Rockland, it is a goal to make the world a better place through education.

We accomplish this by learning what works and then ensuring students are not just engaged in curriculum, but that they are pioneering and participating in new technology, offerings, family nights and career-ready experiences - all while building character.

Understanding the latest technology is crucial for students in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world. To address this NR has launched a multitude of strategies to incorporate tech into the classroom to equip learners with the necessary digital tools, while also being mindful of the pitfalls of overuse or misuse of technology. NR educators understand that technology tools such as Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) are not going away therefore it is our responsibility to teach students how to use technology properly.

As computers continue to rapidly advance, North Rockland has established an A.I. team to stay at the forefront of trends and devise ways to ethically integrate innovative and interactive learning efficiently and creatively. This will help our students become proficient in navigating online platforms, cyber security and becoming masters of technological resources. This strategy equips them with the knowledge and skills needed for academic and career success in a competitive job market.

Obviously, access to the internet has become a critical part of the instructional day. This became clear on March 4, 2024, when the District faced internet connectivity issues, leading to the removal of Guest Wi-Fi access across North Rockland schools. The Instructional Technology Department is actively addressing the problem with our internet service provider. However, our primary concern is ensuring that the network is fully functional for educational purposes.

Although it was an unintended consequence, disabling the Guest Wi-Fi, has resulted in administrators and teachers reporting an increase in student engagement and human-to-human interactions at North Rockland High School.

Studies have indicated that too much screen time can be harmful to not only students but adults as well. In fact, The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has reported that "excessive screen time can lead to problems in social-emotional development, including obesity, sleep disturbances, depression and anxiety. It can impair emotional comprehension, promote aggressive behavior and hinder social and emotional competence." Some school districts have implemented a "no phone zone" through the use of Yondr pouches. While North Rockland is not currently considering Yondr pouches, we are trying to determine if making the Guest Wi-Fi available again is in the best interest of our school community even if it can be done without jeopardizing the academic Wi-Fi network.

Students will continue to have access to the network and email through their district-issued Chromebooks. Parents who need to speak to their children during the day can call the main office at (845) 942-3300. NRHS has also dedicated a phone line in the main office for students should they need to make a call to a family member.

Our district is proactive in opening our schools to expansive partnerships with organizations that are experts in their fields. We are developing excellence through structured academic environments, experiences exclusively offered here and educators working alongside public entities to develop self-motivation in students around the clock.

The first unique joint program we are showcasing (see video below) is the longstanding afterschool cooperative NR has with the Haverstraw Center. The center is a place where students of all ages are given every opportunity to shape themselves into the people they aspire to be. A hot meal, homework help, job opportunities, mentoring, wellness workshops and an attentive, caring ear to listen are always waiting for our kids there. Our partnership is strong because we both are aligned in the belief that good character education and a well-educated mind provide balance in life for young people.

In closing, I want to remind parents/guardians that good ideas spread when we learn from each other. North Rockland events provide a special place for families to share experiences. We recognize that these evening enterprises are a common ground where memories and a better future for children can be made together. Large-scale events like SEL Night at Stony Point Elementary create an avenue for families to gain knowledge and skills, which is why in this District we work to host as many as we possibly can.

Looking forward to NR School's continued growth, progress and excellence!

Kris Felicello

Superintendent of Schools

*** North Rockland has announced a 0% Tax Levy increase for the 5th year in a row! With this unprecedented decision by the Board of Education to control taxes NR becomes the first District in NYS to forgo a tax levy increase for a half decade!***

Through a multi-year plan forward and strategic budgeting, North Rockland has comprised a fiscally responsible budget that utilizes every available revenue source. Our business office has worked to secure competitive grants and Clean Energy rebates as well as maximize COVID funds and expense and foundation-based aid. Over the last five consecutive years of a 0% tax levy, the district has completed important capital projects, pioneered high-level programs and increased critical mental health supports for students, all while maintaining costs and the financial burden on taxpayers.

View March 5, 2024 Budget Presentation Linked Here.

Upcoming Budget Presentation Dates

March 19, 2024 (COTW Meeting) Budget Update

April 9, 2024 (BOE Meeting) Budget Update/Public Input

April 16, 2024 (COTW Meeting) Adoption of Budget

May 7, 2024 (BOE Meeting) Public Hearing/Final Budget

May 21, 2024 Budget Vote

The community of NRCSD is a major part of what we do in our schools. Strong community partners play a vital role in supporting and enhancing the educational experience for our students. In this district, we know that involving our community in what we do brings a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives that meet the ever-changing needs of families, inspire students and foster a sense of belonging.

The Remarkable Community Partner Award is a new district spotlight given to those incredible organizations, agencies, non-profits and local governments who collaborate with our schools to bring knowledge and expanded opportunities well beyond the classroom or school day.

#NRProud to share that the first Remarkable Community Partner award recipient is the Haverstraw Center - for all they have done and continue to do each and every day, for generations of Red Raiders. Whether it be providing services, necessities, opportunities or just a helping hand, the difference they have made in the lives of our students is immeasurable.

Please help us congratulate the Haverstraw Center and all center staff on this incredibly well-deserved recognition. Thank you for always being - remarkable!

The North Rockland Green Team will collect broken, used or unwanted crayons at our K-3 Elementary Schools (TES, SPES and WHES) and at our Community Partner location Sachdev Family Orthodontics - 124 E. Ramapo Road, Suite #2 Garnerville, NY 10923. Please send any unwanted crayons in with your child to drop off in the collection boxes. Every crayon received will be donated to The Crayon Initiative program to be repurposed and given to children in hospitals to use during their stays nationwide.

North Rockland Central School District's "Chicago: Teen Edition" final performance are on March 15 and 16. both shows start at 7pm.

Tickets can be purchased online at nrhsdrama.booktix.com or at the door. Adult tickets are $15. Tickets for students and senior citizens (65+) are $12.

NR is setting students up with a head start in their college and career search. Pace University and SUNY Fredonia visited North Rockland High School this week for informative sessions that provided valuable insights and guidance for students' future plans. Covering the topics of admissions, financial aid, majors, programs, pathways and campus life the networking events are designed to help scholars get ready for the next step NR Together.

Mark your calendar now! Throughout March the NR College and Career Center will host four more Information Sessions, the 2024 SUNY College Fair and two College Visits. Next month the center has also organized two Career/Trade Fairs for high schoolers to connect with professionals in their fields of interest NR Strong!

NRHS College and Career Center Events for Parents

College Panel Night will be held on Thursday, March 21, from 5 pm to 6 pm, prior to Parent-Teacher Conferences. College admissions representatives will be here to talk about the college application process. This will be helpful for all parents, especially parents of juniors.

College Process Parent Information Session will be held on Wednesday, March 27, from 8 to 8:45 am, during the Parent-Teacher Conferences. This will be helpful for all parents, especially parents of juniors.

For additional information, go to the College and Career Center webpage. Check back weekly for updates

Check out the first round of Haverstraw Elementary School "The Amazing Shake" competition, where over 300 students participated to show off their manners, discipline, respect and how to conduct themselves in a professional environment.

More Green Photos.

This week SPE hosted the next installment in NRCSD’s 2024 Family Night Workshop series, SEL Night. The warm spring sun, a gigantic turnout and little ones stepping foot into classrooms for the first time made the event one to remember in North Rockland Schools. The “mini school day” for the whole family featured four activity lessons across different wings of the elementary building including Grow-ga, Stress Balls, Friendship Bracelets and Meditation. Full Story/More Photos.

The annual West Haverstraw Read-In was a huge success! Each year the goal is to promote and develop skills necessary for reading, comprehension, critical thinking and SEL. The day was filled with a wide range of guest readers, with the fan favorites having either four legs or two wings. Special guests came from all parts of our community, like BOE Members, Administration, staff, family, firefighters law enforcement, politicians, utility companies, NR Rotary and much much more! Full Story/More Photos.

NR educators were captivated by guest speaker Dr. Michael Doughty. He spoke about how leadership and technology can merge to empower teachers and students on their educational journey. After the presentation, the groups broke out into four stations to dive deeper into the topic of their choice. By the end of the day, educators in NR left with access to collaborative digital technologies that accommodate different learning styles! Full Story/More Photos.

In NRCSD Robotics is the ultimate, battery-powered, mechanical sport for the mind and we're here to report. The NRHS Robotics Team - uNReal - geared up and competed at the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition at Rockland Community College.

During the exciting and intense three-day event uNReal perfected, then unleashed our unstoppable machine (#7730). Full Story/More Photos.

Use this month's resource to enhance Self-Awareness and Self-Management.

• March Activity *Featuring a Special Guest!

Matthew DeVincenzo is our RED RAIDER OF THE WEEK!!! Matt is a junior on the North Rockland High School ski team. During the winter season, DeVincenzo was known to be one of the top skiers on the team and always had a positive attitude. He had a strong year finishing in the top 10 in the league and was one of the four skiers representing North Rockland at the Sectional Meet at Hunter Mountain. In the Section One meet, DeVincenzo came in 29/67 which was the top score out of the four. Long nights at practice and meets didn’t disrupt his studies as he easily maintained an A average in his AP and college-level courses. His coach said, “Matt has been our leader all season and always known to help his other teammates. I look forward to coaching him next year.” Make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Matt!!

Britney Came is our LADY RAIDER OF THE WEEK!!! Britney is a sophomore on the JV cheerleading team at North Rockland High School. She is a back spotter on the team and is amazing at it. She constantly comes into practices and competitions with a great attitude and always works hard. Her coach said, “She always has a smile on her face and is able to cheer up her teammates with words of encouragement and support. She is a great asset to our program.” Let’s make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Britney!!

Modified Sports starts Monday, March 18.

Home Games:

Varsity:

Boys Lacrosse Scrimmage vs. Dobbs Ferry

Wednesday, March 20 at 4:30 PM

Girls Lacrosse Scrimmage vs. Nanuet

Thursday, March 21 at TBD

JV:

Baseball Scrimmage vs. Monroe Woodbury

Friday, March 22 at 4:00 PM

NRHS Spring Musical in Auditorium

March 15 & 16.

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

North Rockland will utilize traditional snow days until the three that are built into our calendar are exhausted. If all snow days are used the District will consider remote days when there is inclement weather.

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

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Upper Elementary Lunch Menu

Fieldstone Middle School Lunch Menu

North Rockland High School Lunch Menu