Community Update
October 11, 2024
COMMUNITY UPDATE
Hello North Rockland Families,
I’m starting this week with a huge “thank you” to everyone who joined us at last Saturday’s spectacular Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the new Casarella Field at North Rockland High School’s Cordisco Stadium. Your support truly makes a difference in our community and it was wonderful to celebrate together on such a beautiful fall day, especially with a Raider win against Carmel!
As we celebrate our new, state-of-the-art athletics facility, I also want to congratulate the 94 current and former NRHS students who have earned AP Scholar Awards this year. Their exceptional achievement on AP exams last May reflect true dedication and hard work. Whether these students have already graduated or are scheduled to this June, I am extremely proud of their commitment to academic excellence.
Looking forward, we remain dedicated to enhancing the safety and accessibility of our schools for both students and families. We are actively working on several improvements across the district, including a blacktop project at Fieldstone Middle School, additional parking and enhancements to bus lanes at all schools to ensure a more efficient drop-off and pick-up process. These ongoing efforts will allow us to keep our school community safe - and efficient!
As we reflect on the spirit and resilience of our community, we must also acknowledge the profound impact of domestic violence on our neighborhoods. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and I encourage all faculty, staff and students to wear purple on October 17 (Domestic Violence Awareness Day) in solidarity with victims and survivors. Together, we can raise awareness and support those affected by domestic violence, fostering a safe and supportive environment for all.
This week also marks Fire Prevention Week, an important opportunity to prioritize safety in our schools, homes and communities. I encourage all families to review their fire escape plans, check smoke alarms and discuss fire safety with their children. By working together, we can build a culture of preparedness and ensure that everyone knows how to respond in case of an emergency.
Amid these important initiatives, it’s a great time to be a Raider! With exciting improvements underway, our athletic successes, and celebrations of our diverse culture, there is so much to be proud of in North Rockland. Let’s continue to work together to create a safe, vibrant, and supportive community.
A reminder: all NRCSD schools are closed on Monday, October 14 in observance of Columbus Day. Enjoy the long weekend!
-Dr. Kris Felicello
Superintendent of Schools
#PointsOfPride - Hispanic Heritage
Fire Prevention Week
WHES was thrilled to host the Thiells Fire Department and West Haverstraw Fire Department in honor of Fire Prevention Month! Our students had an exciting and educational experience as firefighters taught them important fire safety tips, gave them a tour of the fire trucks and even let them explore the inside of an emergency helicopter. The highlight of the day was getting to spray the fire hose like real firefighters!
Weekly Read Alongs
Athletics
Justin Rodriguez
Justin is a freshman at North Rockland High School and a member of the JV boys soccer team. Throughout this season, he has consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and an unwavering commitment to improving his skills at every practice. As a midfield player, Justin has made a significant impact on both ends of the field, showcasing his versatility and determination to contribute in every game. His standout performances against Clarkstown North and Clarkstown South were highlighted by his impressive four assists, further proving his role as a key playmaker. “Justin has put in the time and effort to elevate his game, especially focusing on improving his conditioning and overall stamina,” his coach said. “His hard work is paying off, and he's become an integral part of our team’s success.”
Olivia Castaldo
Introducing Casarella Field at Ralph Cordisco Stadium to NRCSD
Over the weekend, NRHS had the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Casarella Field at Ralph Cordisco Stadium. NR Athletics spoke with our Board of Education members, along with Deputy Superintendent, Anthony Zollo, and Assistant Superintendent of Business, Kleo Girandola, to share their thoughts about this incredible project and how it came to life. After a successful ribbon-cutting ceremony over the weekend, we hope everyone is filled with Raider Pride seeing the NEW field in person!
Just before the ribbon was cut, Coach Casarella received a special proclamation from Rockland County Executive Ed Day, officially designating October 5th as 'Joe Casarella Day' in Rockland County! This extraordinary honor will be celebrated and remembered for generations. View more pictures HERE!
Raider Rundown
Check out this season's Raider Rundowns! Raider Rundowns, formerly known as Coaches Corner, provides an inside look at each of our varsity sports teams from the coach's eyes.
This week, athletics featured varsity girls tennis, boys soccer, and field hockey. Tune in to learn more about our varsity team's goals, advice and more!
Football is Number One in Section One AA!
Girls Swim Senior Day
Our Varsity Girls Swim Team seniors were celebrated before their meet against Wappingers Falls! We’re so proud of you, seniors, and wish you the best as you make a splash in the rest of your season! View the post HERE!
Volley for a Cause
Modified NR Red Girls Soccer Wins!
Volley for Vets
Varsity Rankings as of 10/11
🏈 Football: 4-1
🏑 Field Hockey: 4-7
⚽ Boys Soccer: 9-1-1
⚽ Girls Soccer: 8-2-2
🏊 Girls Swimming: 7-0
🏐 Boys Volleyball: 8-2
🏐 Girls Volleyball: 9-3
Athletic Events
Honoring Coach Lauren Bunyan Gould: Memorial Plaque Dedication Ceremony
On Friday, October 18 the NR community will come together to honor Coach Lauren Bunyan Gould with a special Memorial Plaque Dedication Ceremony. The event will be held at the entrance to Casarella Field at Cordisco Stadium at 3:15 pm, where we invite friends, family, former athletes and the North Rockland HS Cheerleaders to gather to pay tribute to a coach who made a lasting impact on the lives of many.