Community Update

February 9, 2024

Today marks the 100th day of school in North Rockland!

We have come so far NR Together and NR Strong in the 2023-24 school year. The occasion was a great time to pause and acknowledge our students' progress. Focusing on the whole, round and perfect number 100, also gave a unique opportunity for teachers to reinforce math concepts, especially in the early grades. I want to thank our staff members for all the fun games, lessons, treats, costumes and hard work they put into making today one of the best of the year for our students.

This week also kicked off instruction on Black History as we honor Black History Month (BHM) and celebrate with diverse guest speakers like Virginia Norfleet of The Haverstraw African American Connection (HAAC). The importance of BHM extends well beyond recognition. It invites us to engage in meaningful conversations about prominent Americans, civil rights, those incredible and trailblazing achievements against the odds and the fight for equality and justice.

Teaching Black History curriculum this month promotes a more inclusive and whole education that reflects the experiences and perspectives of all students. In NRCSD we promote the importance of representation, inclusivity, empowerment, cultural competence and awareness, empathy, an overall tradition of excellence and the significance of working towards building a more equitable society. Seeing the accomplishments and contributions of the resilient figures who helped shape the world we live in today not only inspires students to pursue their own goals and dreams, it a deepens an understanding of history, experiences and respect.

As we inch closer to the Class of 2024 receiving their diplomas we are committed to providing every resource and opportunity for learners to plan out their next steps. Thank you to all who attended this week’s NRHS FAFSA Filing Night hosted by our Counseling Department.

Over the course of the next few weeks, Districtwide our high school students will be taking field trips to colleges, universities, places like the Amazon Warehouse & Fulfillment Center and local businesses in honor of Career and Technical Education Month—a time when school communities nationwide celebrate the programs that prepare their students for the workforce and help further their education.

A special thanks goes out to North Rockland’s incredible Counselors for all they do for our students and families. Please help us thank them during National School Counseling Week further below in today’s update.

Next week before we head into the Mid-Winter Break, NR schools have a lot planned for learning lessons, Valentine's Day and Presidents Day. School experiences are some of the best times as kids work towards their goals. Please join us in encouraging students to take part in the many educational, social, athletic and academic memory-making moments ahead.

Thank you for staying connected and engaged in our district.

Kris Felicello

Superintendent of Schools

For the Board of Education and Administration, developing a budget that is both educationally sound and fiscally responsible is an important and comprehensive process. The 2024-25 budget continues our mission of providing a safe, caring and positive learning environment in which all students can achieve their maximum potential and acquire the skills, attitudes and abilities needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. It is the District's goal to provide our students with an exemplary experience while controlling taxes for our community. We understand the fiscal challenges that living in Rockland County pose.

As always, our budget fully supports the curriculum, instruction and professional development that addresses the needs of all learners. Our budget also includes significant facility improvements to enhance our learning and working environments while achieving real cost savings.

View the February 6, 2024 Budget Presentation Linked Here.

Upcoming Budget Presentation Dates

February 27, 2024 (COTW Meeting) Budget Update

March 5, 2024 Tax Levy Limit to State

March 5, 2024 (BOE Meeting) Budget Update

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

Hometown: Garnerville

NRHS Graduate: 2002

Profession: New York City Firefighter/ Home Inspector

Time at North Rockland: Jose shared he was a proud Red Raider during his schooling at NRCSD. In high school, he was a dedicated athlete for the football team. Playing a varsity sport meant a lot to his education, it was not just a love of the game and sport but the connection and support it offered. Castro will always remember his football coach, who never gave up on him. He was a pivotal mentor in pushing Jose to continue his education.

Career Now: After receiving his GED Castro joined the FDNY as a firefighter and began the career he had dreamed of as a kid. Since then he has made headlines for saving lives. In October of 2020, three FDNY firefighters from Rockland County were hailed as heroes after they were involved in saving people, including children in two separate fire rescues. One was in Washington Heights in Manhattan where Jose, was involved in a roof-rope rescue. The 11-year veteran of the FDNY told News 12 at the time it was a once-in-a-lifetime type of rescue. "It was surreal definitely surreal. It's something you train for, you dream about. Most people that become firefighters it's what we want to do. We want to make an impact, save a life and make a difference in someone's life and it's definitely a heartwarming feeling to make that difference," says Castro. Today he resides with his family in his hometown of Garnerville, continues his work as a NYC firefighter and owns Top 2 Bottom Home Inspections.

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

To nominate a North Rockland graduate to be spotlighted please click here to fill out this form.

Attribution:

News 12

https://westchester.news12.com/fdny-firefighter-from-rockland-county-saves-kids-from-burning-apartment

Date: Oct 1, 2020

In honor of NSCW24 (Feb 5-9) we are spotlighting each of our counseling teams for making NRCSD School Counseling - “Standards-Based and Student-Focused" with the dynamic services they provide.

North Rockland school counselors work collaboratively in every building and the NR Remote Academy and Behavior Center. These caring and knowledgeable individuals supply a wealth of powerful support when it comes to our kid's growth, social skills development and success stories. We recognize the improved student outcomes, more informed college and career decision-making and doer culture this department is responsible for.

Thank you for creating a space where feelings are valued, communication is effective and students are prepared to take on the next step in their lives as well as their overall well-being. We Appreciate You!

“She convinced me to do wrestling.” an FMS eighth grader wrote across the “#NSCW24 Reasons I <3 My Counselor” board during lunch periods this week. As part of their student-focused services, our middle school counselors set up a full-length “Check-In Booth" outside the cafeterias where students could stop by, catch up, book time and share achievements with their in-school cheerleaders. Share Why You <3 School Counselors Here.

The counseling office at NRHS is one of the most inviting spaces and cherished places on campus. Stepping through the doorway of the ever-decorated guidance department, you can find a wealth of student and family resources, a schedule of workshops, events and college trips, support, advice and above all – an ear to listen. Inspirational quotes lining the walls, open seating, privacy inside the offices and the most wonderfully positive secretaries are just some of the elements that draw our students in and create a welcoming atmosphere. More Photos.

It’s the 100th day of school and Stony Point Elementary celebrated in style! The school was filled to the brim with neon colors, vibrant decorations, laughter and smiles. The entire building participated in a math scavenger hunt, while each grade got to show off their moves during a dance party. The gym classes also got to show off their rhythm by performing the drums with pool noodles and yoga balls. All in all, it was the perfect way to celebrate the 100th day of school! More Photos.

It is almost time for Haverstraw Elementary’s “The Amazing Shake” competition. All four houses met in the auditorium where the House Committee laid out the rules for the upcoming 2024 contest. More Photos

Dr. Michael Gill’s second Academy Workshop was all about first impressions. First impressions play a crucial role in life, as they can shape professional interactions, academic experiences and overall perceptions. Positive first impressions can foster trust, respect, collaboration and connections both academically and professionally.Full Story/More Photos

Farley fifth graders wanted to follow Superintendent Felicello's footsteps by getting a book published. To hone in on their persuasive writing skills, FES educator Shana Coovert challenged her class to write a book. What better topic could there be than food? The students were challenged to persuade readers to try their favorite food. Full Story/More Photos.

Fieldstone Middle School students in Bryan Duroy’s 8th grade Social Studies class selected prominent figures from American history to make mock social media accounts for. Each digital Instagram profile has a modern bio, signature profile picture and post story based on the individual’s life and personality. Full Story/More Photos.

The ZUZU Acrobats are a Tanzanian troupe who base their performances on 2000 years of history. They bring modern art, culture, and passion with them everywhere they go. ZUZU celebrates the niche culture of Dar Es Salaam through jaw-dropping acrobatics, live music, singing, dancing, and more! Full Story/Watch Performance.

Today, North Rockland High School celebrated Black History Month with the Harlem Renaissance Extravaganza. The day was jam-packed with performances, art and music to commemorate and celebrate black history and the Harlem Renaissance period. Full Story/More Photos.

Cody Ellis is our RED RAIDER OF THE WEEK!!! Cody is a junior on the ski team at North Rockland High School. Ellis has been a part of the team the past few years and has grown into a better skier, especially this year. During one of his races he had his personal best in finishing in the top 10 among 43 skiers. For all of the hard work Ellis has been putting in this year he has been selected amongst his three other team members for sectionals at Hunter Mountain next week. Ellis is also known to be a great student. His coach said, “Cody has been working hard all season to improve his skiing. He is always receptive to feedback and is encouraging to his teammates. His ambition has paid off as he has qualified for sections.” Let’s make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Cody!

Rhianna Sanchez is our LADY RAIDER OF THE WEEK!!! Rhianna is a senior at North Rockland High School and a member of the varsity cheer team. Since 2021 Rhianna has been a part of the program starting as a base and now is both a base and a backspot. When joining the program she started off quiet and has grown into a very confident, well-spoken, high-energy young lady. Sanchez is also known to be an impeccable student and a Scholar-Athlete who constantly juggles her school, cheer team and family obligations, making it all seem easy. Her teammates love coming to her for advice, reassurance and just a friendly smile and hello. Her coach said, “She is a leader, manager, a sister and a friend to both varsity and JV. She is an amazing athlete who is coachable, follows directions and is always willing to help and step in when needed.” Let’s make some #REDANDWHITENOISE for Rhianna!

• Boys Basketball:

  15-5

• Girls Basketball: 10-9

• Ice Hockey: 9-9-1
• Wrestling - Qualified for sections which is the state qualifier this weekend:

1. 101 Liam Lin
2. 124 Nick Vargas
3. 131 Amari Payton
4. 145 Justin Riello
5. 145 Jiaro Martinez
6. 152 Wesly Guzman
7. 160 Jayden Perini
8. 170 Dylan Shelton
9. 285 Chiam Fountain

Monday, February 12 5PM

Ice Hockey vs. New Rochelle (Senior Night)

Sport O Rama

Mid-Winter Recess. All schools closed.

Feb. 19 - 23.

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 platform enables 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

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