Hello North Rockland Families,

As we wrap up our third week of the 2024-25 academic year, we do so with an eye toward school safety and security. As you are well aware, violent school threats posted to social media began circulating in our region during the past few days. According to the New York State Intelligence Center, the non-credible threats reference a potential school shooting.

In North Rockland, our Threat Assessment Teams are working closely with both the Haverstraw and Stony Point police departments and the Rockland County Sheriff's Office to probe all reported threats. NRCSD administrators in all of our buildings are aware of these incidents and are monitoring them closely.

As a school community, we are committed to providing a secure environment. One of the most effective ways to strengthen our security is through collaboration with you - our parents, caregivers, students and staff. Open communication helps us remain informed, vigilant and responsive. Whether you are securing doors, reporting questionable social media content or having safety discussions with your children, every effort strengthens the security of our schools.

Additionally, the North Rockland Central School District is considering a partnership with the Anonymous Alerts anti-bullying and safety reporting system. Anonymous Alerts helps to combat bullying and other negative activity in schools and online by empowering students to speak up. The platform allows for one-way or two-way anonymous encrypted communications between submitters (students, family members or community members) and district administration and/or school staff. Users have the option to remain anonymous or reveal their identity when submitting a report. Watch for more information about Anonymous Alerts in the coming weeks.

We recognize that these are challenging times. Please use these incidents to speak with your child about the safe use of all social media platforms and reinforce the “see something, say something” approach.

Today, our entire district participated in the annual "NR Goes Gold" initiative, where North Rockland turns into a sea of gold to raise awareness for childhood cancer. This districtwide tradition draws a fantastic turnout every year. Our Field Hockey team also raised funds to support childhood cancer research, while our middle school students contributed by giving out gold ribbons and sending heartfelt cards to local children currently battling cancer. It was an inspiring day of solidarity and compassion.

During the summer, North Rockland High School received a major upgrade to its cafeteria. We’ve introduced a variety of seating options—booths, semi-circles, high tops and more—to create a vibrant and flexible space for our students. This new furniture isn’t just about aesthetics; it promotes collaboration, choice and student well-being while bolstering the Red Raider school spirit!

Our Meet the Teacher events continued this week with great success, welcoming families from our lower elementary and middle schools. These nights are an essential opportunity for families to engage with teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and gain insights into the curriculum. We love seeing the collaboration between home and school as we kick off another school year focused on student success.

On Tuesday night, we hosted the North Rockland PTA Council Night, where our dedicated administration, BOE and PTA members from every school gathered to break the ice and get to know each other. The evening was filled with great ideas and enthusiastic collaboration as we continue to work together to ensure the best possible educational experience for our students.

Thank you to everyone who has helped make these events a success. We look forward to many more opportunities to come in the weeks ahead.

-Dr. Kris Felicello

Superintendent of Schools