Parentsquare Logo

  • Value Education - December 2025

    Value Education December 2025 Superintendent's Notebook by Michael Burke        The month of December provides an opportunity to reflect on the memories and achievements of the prior year. It has been an honor to join such a vibrant Rye Neck community and have the opportunity to celebrate a myriad of student accomplishments. I was extremely impressed by the Rye Neck Theater Department’s fall drama production of The Crucible . Our students’ portrayal of the tenuous balance between hysteria and independent thought was truly captivating. The Rye Neck fall sports program enjoyed another successful season, highlighted with both team and individual accomplishments. Our Girls Varsity Field Hockey team competed in the Section 1 Class C Championships, while senior swimmer Grayson Findlay competed in the 200 Meter Free Relay at the New York State Championships.       The second semester of our school year begins at the end of January. This is when our seniors start to finalize their post-secondary plans. Our senior internship program begins during the fourth marking period, with our students demonstrating their readiness to make a positive difference within our community and beyond. In addition to the senior internship program, Rye Neck requires our students to perform 40 hours of Community Service over their four years of high school. The mission of this program is to “allow students to develop a wide range of personal, intellectual, academic and social skills such as teamwork, problem solving, negotiation, communication, planning, and evaluation that will help them become effective employees, colleagues, citizens, and leaders.”       Rye Neck staff and students have again joined forces to  outline the process for the second phase of our district-wide Strategic Plan. We enjoyed an invigorating session of work with consultant Judy Wilson on Thursday, November 20th. Our team looks forward to initiating our Phase II action plans, which continue to enhance the district’s commitment to problem solving; build transformative educational environments; and grow our professional learning community.      Finally, we have two important community presentations planned over the next few months. After the completion of a multi-year process of gathering feedback and information, the Board of Education has approved plans to prepare for a bond referendum vote in the Fall of 2026. This will be to improve the outdoor athletic facilities on our Middle/High school campus. On Wednesday, December 17th, an architect from LAN Associates will provide an initial overview of the proposed upgrades at our monthly Board of Education meeting, which begins at 7:00 PM in the HS/MS Library Community Room. In addition, budget planning season is upon us!  Our initial presentation of the 2026-27 Rye Neck Schools budget plan will be made at the February 11th Board of Education meeting at 7:00 PM. All are welcome to attend. Board of Education Update by Erica Wagner, President Hello Rye Neck families,     The 2025-2026 school year is moving full steam ahead, and Panthers big and small are enthusiastically working toward their goals. As a Board, we too are making great strides toward the goals we set at our summer retreat.      Our first goal is to commit to completing the project begun last year to align Rye Neck’s policy manual with New York State’s best practices. We are happy to report that we reviewed the final section of Rye Neck’s policy manual, the 9000s, at our December planning session; this section will be up for adoption later this month. The entire policy manual review will be completed in the coming months. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the administration and staff who worked tirelessly to explore how these policies could best support Rye Neck. Additionally, we are indebted to the Policy Committee that was established in December 2024 to support the Board of Education in the process of determining and reviewing the policies of our school district. The review has been a wonderful team effort by our staff, community members and board members.      Our second goal is to commit to engaging with the community to develop a plan that will determine both short and long-term fiscal and facility priorities. The latter portion of this goal has been thoughtfully considered by our Facilities Committee, which was also established in December 2024, with a focus on curating a committee of community members who share valuable industry insights and best practices on facilities-related issues and planning. The fruits of their efforts will be on display at the December 17th Board meeting when architects from LAN Associates present renderings for their proposed plan to enhance Rye Neck’s athletic facilities. Since Rye Neck is the last Section One school to use only all-grass fields, a potential referendum to upgrade our facilities invites excitement and unrealized opportunities for the community.      Our third goal is to commit to supporting the integration of new Superintendent Mr. Burke’s vision with the district’s ongoing Strategic Plan. Phase II of the Strategic Plan took an exciting step in November when administrators, staff, and four Junior students met with Judy Wilson, an experienced educational consultant and planning facilitator, to prepare action plans for our second phase. Together, the team reviewed results of student and staff surveys, and brainstormed ideas for each of the three existing goals. Additionally, they created a Strategic Plan communication outline for the district. We are grateful for everyone who took time and thoughtfulness to help construct meaningful goals, action steps and metrics that will allow us to follow a clear plan of action to achieve Rye Neck’s objectives.      We wish everyone a healthy and happy holiday season and look forward to continued success in the year ahead.        Overview of the Fall 2025 Athletics Department A combined 400 athletes in grades 7-12 participated on our 23 fall interscholastic athletic teams at the Varsity, JV and modified levels.      Summary  Homecoming weekend 2025 was an extremely successful event. The Student Senate and Student Athlete Cabinet organized a spirit filled Pep Rally. Rye Neck athletes, teams and coaches represented Rye Neck well! Congratulations to our Varsity Athletes Fall Season Award Winners . 40 athletes earned League recognitions. 6 were nominated for the Section 1 All Sportsmanship Team. 27 athletes earned team recognitions. Every Varsity team qualified for their post season championships!  Highlighted by girls soccer reaching the semifinals; boys soccer claiming the League Championship; field hockey making it to the Section 1 Class C Championship game; and Grayson Findlay competing at the NY State Swimming Championships. Congratulations to Varsity Field Hockey Head Coach Kathleen Regan and Varsity Boys Soccer Head Coach Bryan Iacovelli for each being voted “2025 League Coach of the Year” by their respective leagues. Panthers who have committed to continue their athletic careers in college include:  Brooke LeDonne -  Ithaca College,  Women’s Soccer Thomas McNiff - Washington University in St. Louis, Men’s Soccer Zach Strzalkowski - Bard College, Baseball A BIG THANKS to the RNSF for our new Soccer/Baseball and Field Hockey/Softball Scoreboards! Our Latest Rye Neck Athletic Hall of Famers were inducted at halftime of the Homecoming Football Game!   Mr. Dominic Brescia (‘15) - Football Coach Joe Carlucci   **Do you know a Panther who should be in our Athletic Hall of Fame? Submit a nomination form by February 1, 2026.**      Community Service and Charitable Initiatives    The “Pink Out” Initiative was organized by freshman student-athlete, Charlie Barker. Every fall season team supported the fundraiser and raised $7,470 through donations and shirt purchases. Proceeds went to Soul Ryeders and Cancer Research. The Varsity Girls Soccer Team and their families participated in the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Walk at the Harbor. The Varsity Cheerleading Team participated in the Breast Cancer Walk at Manhattanville University. From Our Community Groups PTSA News by Elizabeth Gillespie, PTSA President   Dear Rye Neck,       The PTSA had a full and exciting fall! We are so grateful to our community for making the Ribbons for Rye Neck fundraiser such a success — we not only reached our $30,000 goal, but are also well on our way toward our overall fundraising target of $111,000, which will be allocated equally across all four schools.      This fall, students enjoyed a variety of enriching experiences, including assemblies, author visits, and book fairs. We hope these activities create lasting memories and spark meaningful conversations at home.      The week of October 21st was our district-wide Walk To School Week. At Daniel Warren, students created living murals with pieces of nature, and at Bellows, students created a school-wide Thankful Tree. And of course, Bellows’ beloved Family Kickball Night returned—depending on who you ask, the kids won 11–10, though the parents maintain it was a 10–10 tie!      Halloween parties and Kindergarten Pumpkinfest were a big hit at the elementary schools. The Middle School Spooktacular was a big success with over 190 tickets sold.      The Rye Neck International Club held its annual Potluck on November 7th. Over 200 attendees shared food, culture, and community. Families enjoyed dishes from around the world!      Parents had some fun too!  The first set of sign-up parties kicked off - a cardio tennis class and Mahjong night!  If you’re interested in hosting a party, please email  social@ryeneckptsa.org !       There’s so much to look forward to in the new year across all our schools. Here are just a few exciting things on the horizon: Daniel Warren: STEAM Mobile Ed Museum, Family Game Night, Rye Y PE Classes Bellows: Michael Buckley Visit, Path to Rhythm, Dance Cavise Bellows on Broadway MS/HS: STEAM Alliance, Sheila Arnold, MS Hang Out, Shakespeare Theatre I hope you’ll join us for these upcoming events:  2/26: Family Dance Night (free community event!) 3/6: General Membership Meeting (all are welcome)  3/14: Parents’ Night Out at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club 4/11: Nearly New Sale at FEB 4/25: Panther Party (we’re bringing back the cakes…IYKYK) 5/17: Color Run in Florence Park      If you haven’t joined the PTSA yet, or need to renew your membership, there’s still time!  Join now and get access to the school directory and more!      Follow us on Instagram @ryeneckptsa for up-to-date info and visit our website: ryeneckptsa.org . Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2026.     News from the Booster Club Greetings!       The Rye Neck Booster Club has been tremendously busy since the start of the school year! We have enjoyed every minute of supporting our athletic & theater programs, as well as spreading Panther Spirit throughout the district!!!       Here are some of the main initiatives we have been involved in thus far: Membership: We had a very successful drive this Fall, with more proud Booster supporters than ever before! If you’ve been enjoying our programming or just want to support our mission of boosting athletics, theater and community spirit, there’s still time to join today! Membership link is available at our website www.ryeneckboosterclub.com or links provided on our weekly Wednesday newsletters! Spiritwear: We are thrilled to see all of the Rye Neck Panther merchandise being proudly worn about town! Our team has been hard at work this fall bringing you a new fresh logo, piloting new items, gifting homecoming t-shirts to the entire HS community and more! Homecoming: Panther Pride was everywhere for this year’s homecoming! It was so fun to see our very successful sports teams compete and have a chance to socialize with friends and neighbors! Even the Panther was out celebrating with the crowd! The Booster Club was so excited to line the fields with our brand new vinyl senior signs which were beloved by all! Students from DW & FEB were in abundance at homecoming, thanks to the hard work by our DW & FEB liaisons who helped launch a coloring pages and poster coloring program and a “bring your ticket” to homecoming initiative! Boo’s and Brews Event: The ominous weather was a perfect backdrop for our new Boo’s and Brews Parent Night Out event we held this fall at Barley Beach House in Rye. All in attendance enjoyed the camaraderie, food and relaxed atmosphere. Here’s a look at what’s coming up next:  Snowflake Soiree: Please GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY for our largest parent event of the year on January 24, 2026 at Modern on the Rails (7pm-10pm)! We are proud that we will be having our online auction once again, the proceeds of which supports our many wonderful initiatives and scholarships! We are actively seeking donations of goods, services or experiences. Please reach out to us at the email below if you have anything to contribute.       Please join us at a meeting, we love to see new faces & hear new ideas! Also feel free to email:  RNBoosterclub@ryeneck.org with any questions!       The Booster Club officers and our extended leadership team are looking forward to seeing you at a game or theatre event sometime soon!  President – Jen Abbey  Vice President - Heather Harvey  Secretary - Stacie Brenkovich  Treasurer - Laura Evangelista        Updates from the Rye Neck School Foundation      2025 was a busy and exciting year for the RNSF! We awarded over 30 grants to Rye Neck teachers and administrators, supporting innovative programs and initiatives that bring state-of-the-art, cutting-edge experiences to all Rye Neck students. Since August alone, the RNSF has awarded 14 grants, including: College Tour Fund  – The High School guidance department took juniors and seniors on tours of three colleges: SUNY New Paltz, Stony Brook University, and Sacred Heart University. Anne Frank: The Exhibition  – Tenth graders visited the Anne Frank Exhibition in NYC. This trip aligned with the content taught on WWII, The Holocaust and Human Rights Violations.  Written Out Loud  – This dynamic storytelling program launched at the Middle School, strengthening student voice, enhancing the writing process and fostering confidence and collaboration, which are key elements of the English curriculum and the District’s goals. Social Studies Weekly Newspaper  – Fourth graders at F.E. Bellows now receive Studies Weekly Social Studies newspapers to enrich their learning and  enhance the social studies curriculum. Fifth Grade Book Clubs  – This grant expands book club offerings with high-interest, diverse and developmentally appropriate texts that promote critical thinking, empathy and a love of reading. Phonics Manipulatives and Tools  – First graders benefit from supplemental decodable readers, word-building games, and manipulatives that increase engagement, build confidence, improve fluency and support independent reading. Classroom Flexible Furniture  – Wobble stools and cozy loungers give kindergarteners opportunities to move, shift positions and improve focus while reducing distracting behaviors.      In November, the RNSF hosted our second annual Polar  Plunge. Over 200 community members attended, plunged and supported the cause, including Principal Doerr, who plunged for the second year in a row and was the event’s top fundraiser! Thanks to the community’s enthusiasm and continued support, we raised approximately $13,000, all of which will go directly toward future grants. If you would like to get involved with the RNSF, please email us at ryeneckschoolfoundation@gmail.com . Also be sure to visit our website at www.ryeneckschoolfoundation.org  and follow us on social media for updates on grants, events and upcoming campaigns.          From the Alumni Association       The Rye Neck Alumni Association has been busy and energized this season as we continue our fundraising efforts to reach our goal of $2,000. This amount will allow us to award two scholarships to deserving seniors who apply and demonstrate academic commitment, school spirit, and dedication to the community. Supporting our students in this way is one of the most meaningful parts of our mission, and we’re excited to continue growing this tradition.       This year’s Homecoming event was a wonderful success. While cheering on our athletes and celebrating school pride, we had the pleasure of welcoming many new alumni to our table as well as reconnecting with longtime members of the Rye Neck family. It was inspiring to see generations of graduates coming together, sharing memories, and showing enthusiasm for the work we are doing.       We are also expanding our programming and community events. One of our most anticipated activities is our first-ever Cornhole Tournament, scheduled for March 21st. This event will be a fun and friendly way for alumni, families, and community members to come together, support our scholarship fund, and enjoy an afternoon of connection and school spirit. More details will be shared soon, including registration information and sponsorship opportunities.       The Alumni Association is grateful for the ongoing support we receive from our community. Every contribution — whether through attendance, participation, or donations — directly impacts the success of our scholarship program and strengthens our alumni network.       We look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events and to continuing the important work of supporting Rye Neck students, past and present. Stay tuned for updates, and thank you for being part of the Panther community!  Best wishes for a happy and healthy 2026!  Cindy Gutierrez-Fasolino Class of 1994      Scan the QR code to donate to the Alumni fund Class of '75's 50th Reunion tour at RNHS   MARK YOUR CALENDAR! December 22-January 2 - Holiday Recess - Schools Closed January 5 -  Schools Reopen January 19 -  Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Day - Schools Closed January 28 -  Early Release Day February 2 -  Kindergarten Registration Opens February 12 -  Experiment Night for all grades at RNHS February 16-20 - Winter Recess - Schools Closed March 4 -  Early Release Day March 5-7 - RNHS Musical Production March 11 - Daniel Warren Science Fair March 19 -  F.E. Bellows Science Expo March 20 - Superintendent's Conference Day - Staff Only March 30- April 3 -  Spring Recess - Schools Closed April 25 - PTSA Panther Party April 29 - Early Release Day May 9 - Springfest Athletic Event May 12-14 - K-5 Art Show May 19 - Budget and Board Trustee Vote May 25 - Memorial Day - Schools Closed June 3 -  Early Release Day June 4-5 -  RNMS Musical Production June 19 -  Juneteenth - Schools Closed June 24 - HS Graduation June 25 -  Last Day of School

    Monday, Dec 08 2025

  • Value Education has moved to ParentSquare. Read the...

    Value Education September 2025 Superintendent's Notebook by Michael Burke       It is my pleasure to extend a warm introduction to the Rye Neck community! It is truly an honor to serve as superintendent of the Rye Neck School District. I have been overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of our students, staff and families. It is a joy to begin our educational journey together.       Our Value Education newsletter is now fully available online, with only our spring budget update being mailed home to all RNUFSD families. Please refer to our school website  ryeneck.org for continuous updates on school events.       The summer months are always busy, and this past July and August were no exceptions. We completed masonry, renovation and restoration at Daniel Warren and F.E. Bellows, repaving at F.E. Bellows, as well as the construction of our high school security vestibule. We are also very excited for our new enclosed lighting and sound booth in our HS/MS auditorium.       Staffing is a key activity every new year, and we have addressed 10 vacancies, including a new district security officer, monitors, teaching assistants and several teachers. Of course our Athletic Department has already begun the year, with 225 varsity and JV fall sport athletes, and an additional 125 modified athletes practicing with 33 coaches. We thank the Rye Neck School Foundation for their generous donation of brand new soccer/baseball and field hockey/softball scoreboards.       I will be enhancing our communication with videos entitled “Superintendent’s Spotlight.”  They are already posted on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, so please follow our school accounts to receive immediate notifications. My Entry Plan is also posted on our website, and outlines my first-year process for reviewing the district through five different lenses: Instruction & Program, Finance, Governance, Operations and Personnel. I look forward to gathering more information and providing opportunities for feedback from all the stakeholders in our district throughout the school year.       The major initiative for our school year is the second phase of our Rye Neck Strategic Plan. We look to expand on our three key goals:  Equip all learners to approach problems by asking questions, exploring solutions, taking action, and reflecting on outcomes Build transformative environments that foster empathy, compassion, and connection to the world. Create learning experiences that instill a sense of purpose inside and outside of the classroom Design systems for our professional learning community to develop practices and expertise that lead to transformational experiences for themselves and their students   Thank you again for such a warm welcome and I look forward to connecting at many future Rye Neck events! Board of Education Update by Erica Wagner, President   Welcome back, Rye Neck! September is not only the kick off to the academic year, but also an invitation for new opportunities to collaborate in innovative and unique ways. We are united in our resolve to work together to accomplish big things for Panther Nation!       This year we welcome back staff and students, as well as our new Superintendent, Mr. Michael Burke. We are thrilled Mr. Burke found his way to Rye Neck. He is kind and engaging, as well as a great listener and leader. He is ready to hit the ground running and build on Rye Neck’s strong legacy.      Earlier this summer, the Board welcomed two new members, Ruth Homberg and Alex Rainert. Erica Wagner will continue as Board President and Nikki Barker was elected Vice President. During the July 1 retreat, the Board established three primary goals for the year. In the coming year, the Board commits to: Complete the project begun last year to align Rye Neck’s policy manual with New York State’s best practices Engage with the community to develop a plan that will determine both short and long-term fiscal and facility priorities  Support the integration of new Superintendent Mr. Burke’s vision with the district’s ongoing Strategic Plan      Additionally, the Board pledges to continue to ensure that board meetings and deliberations are as transparent as possible. The schedule of board meetings can be found on the district site and meeting agendas will be published the week prior to each meeting. The District continues to video every planning session in addition to the regular board meetings through LMC Media. Regular meetings can be viewed in real time, and videos are available for viewing after the meetings.       The Board encourages the community to get involved by attending meetings, as well as by volunteering for one of four committees - Audit, Facilities, Policy, and Technology. The role of committee members is to ensure that community interests are addressed and to advise and share their expertise. We are grateful to live in a community where people so generously share their time, insights and knowledge. Please consider getting involved this year in one of the committees, parent groups, or any other way you can donate your time.       There is no doubt that working together will contribute to a successful year for Rye Neck’s students, staff and community! Looking forward to a wonderful year - Go Panthers! Erica Wagner for the Board of Education Welcome New Staff!  Andrew Bartlik Physics Leave Replacement, RNHS      Nuclear Engineer Andrew Bartlik graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a Masters degree in Engineering. He most recently served as a Principal Design Engineer at the Barakah Nuclear Plant, located in the United Arab Emirates. Mr. Bartlik previously worked for Orange-Ulster Boces, developing instructional material for high school and AP Physics. Mr. Bartlik has also taught Physics in White Plains Central Schools. Lea Berlioz Kindergarten Teacher, DW      Léa’s teaching philosophy centers on positivity, curiosity, and nurturing each child’s individuality. A fully bilingual French-American, she holds a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Cortland and a master’s from Hunter College. She brings experience from FASNY, DWIGHT IB, and PS 6. Léa's very excited to inspire young minds at Rye Neck.   William Carroll District Safety and Security Officer      William Carroll lives in Brewster, NY, with his wife, Maureen, and their three children. A proud United States Marine Corps veteran, he served as a Police Officer in the NYPD and recently retired from the Bronxville Police Department where he held the rank of Lieutenant. Albert Ciuffetelli Physical Education Teacher and Teaching Assistant, DW/RNHS      Albert Ciuffetelli received his master's degree in Physical Education at Manhattanville University, where he also played college baseball. He has a background in coaching baseball and basketball. He previously worked at Yorktown High School in the life skills program before coming to Rye Neck.  Matteson Donnelly Physical Education Leave Replacement, RNHS      A SUNY Cortland graduate and track & field alumna, Matteson Donnelly previously taught PE at Washington Irving Intermediate School. She enjoys golfing with friends in her free time and can’t wait to bring energy and enthusiasm to Rye Neck. She’s excited to join the community and begin this new chapter in education.  David-anthony Murray Earth Science Teacher, RNHS      Passionate about family, health, and nature, Mr. Murray loves sharing Apple Fitness workouts and scenic river trail rides with his wife and daughter. A proud graduate of the American Museum of Natural History’s Master of Arts program, his days are fueled by high intensity interval training and foundations of inspiration.  Alexis Pantello K-5 Guidance Counselor, DW/FEB       Alexis comes to Rye Neck with 15 years of experience working with students of all ages. She creates a safe environment by being a resource and advocate for students and their families. In her free time, she loves to cook and cheer for her two active children from the sidelines.    Christine  Smith ENL Teacher, RNMS/HS       Christine Smith is thrilled to join the Rye Neck School District. She holds a bachelor’s in Childhood Education, a master’s in Childhood Special Education, and ENL certification in grades K–12. Her goal is to support English Language Learners in building confidence, strengthening language skills, and embracing the rich diversity they bring to the classroom! Cynthia Lanuza   Kindergarten Teacher's Aide, DW       Cynthia Lanuza is a proud Rye Neck alumni whose passion for people and positivity lights up every room. With a strong background in fitness club membership sales, she brings energy, heart, and a deep love for her community as she begins her first year at Daniel Warren—ready to inspire . Kara Naughton Special Services Teaching Assistant, DW       Kara received her master’s degree from Sarah Lawrence College after a career in retail management working for Gap Inc. and Gap International. She has worked in the Mamaroneck, Eastchester, and Irvington school districts to name a few. She enjoys traveling, gardening, and cooking and has 2 dogs Zuzka and Bentley. Robert Simels Chemistry Leave Replacement, RNHS        Rob Simels received his bachelor's degree in biology from UNC Chapel Hill and a master's degree in Sports Management and Recreation from Springfield College. After working on college campuses running recreation programs and facilities for 18 years, Rob decided to return to his original career goal of teaching. He is currently completing his MST from SUNY Potsdam Jeannine Teter Secretary to Principal, DW         Jeannine is a Fordham alum, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees there, and has spent the past 20 years working in higher education. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading a good book, and going to the beach. Jeannine is excited to join the team at Daniel Warren and is looking forward to getting to know all the wonderful kids at school in the Fall! Tenure Candidates      The Rye Neck School District is committed to recruiting and retaining excellent teachers. There are several mechanisms in place to ensure that our professional staff meets this goal, including ongoing feedback from the superintendent, principals, department supervisors, directors and chairs.      Each of these professionals brings a unique and important perspective to the process and works individually with nontenured teachers to foster professional development and provide support. These professional relationships help staff members reflect on their practice, grow and make appropriate adjustments.      From a formal perspective, district administrators utilize a comprehensive evaluation process, frequently observing and evaluating each new staff member to offer suggestions, monitor progress and assess improvement. A four-year probationary period is required before new teachers/administrators receive tenure and a three-year period for teachers who have previously held tenure in another public school district in New York State.      Parents can provide valuable insights and should do so, first to the staff member directly, since this feedback would be most helpful to him/her. Once parents have spoken to the teacher, they may also wish to share their thoughts with the individual building principal or supervisor.      Tenure recommendations are being considered for the following:  Teachers: Teaching Assistants Administrators Alexandra Campana Michael Marino Philece McCoy Megan Pepitone Anneliese Rosen Jessica Salierno Samantha Amar Jennifer Bartlett Isil Schwartz Mary Lanza News from the Athletic Department      The 2025 Fall sports preseason officially kicked off on August 23rd for the football program and August 25th for all other varsity and JV teams.  There were over 200 athletes and 30 coaches on the field and courts prepping for their upcoming game schedule. Come out and cheer on our Panther teams and athletes.  Thank you for your continued support of our athletic programs.   Homecoming Weekend is October 10th & 11th. Mark your calendars now.  The varsity home contest schedule is as follows: Girls Tennis - 4:30 PM - Friday Boys Soccer - 4:30 PM - Friday Volleyball - 6:00 PM - Friday Field Hockey - 11:00 AM - Saturday** Senior Day Ceremony at 10:00AM Girls Soccer - 11:00 AM - Saturday Football - 3:00 PM - Saturday** Senior Day Ceremony at 2:30PM.  Cross Country - 4:30pm - Tuesday (Oct 7) At halftime of the Homecoming football game, we will have two very special recognitions.  Mr. Dominic Brescia (Football ‘15), and Mr. Joe Carlucci (Coach) are the latest Panthers to be elected to the Rye Neck Athletic Hall of Fame and will be honored for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions. Follow Rye Neck Athletics on “X” at @RNHSathletics Go Rye Neck! From Our Community Groups Kicking off the 65th Year of the PTSA      Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year! We’re excited to kick off another fantastic year—and to celebrate a special milestone:  the 65th anniversary  of the Rye Neck Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA)!      The team has been hard at work behind the scenes to bring you a year full of exciting events, enriching programs, and unforgettable experiences for our students. This year, our goal is to raise over $100,000, which will directly support programs that benefit every student. A few initiatives include: After School Clubs Author Visits + STEAM programs across all four schools Book Fairs Class Photos Health & Wellness Initiatives The Rye Y Recess program Family Fitness Nights Middle School Activity Night and the Spooktacular Panther Party Color Run Senior Send-Off      We also host parent workshops and events in partnership with the Special Education Action Committee (SEAC) and the Rye Neck International Committee (RNIC).      The calendar is packed with events for all—from fun-filled student activities to parent socials — there’s something for everyone to look forward to. How can you support the PTSA programming?  It’s simple! Become a PTSA member:  Your  $15 membership fee  supports our programming, and this gives you access to the school directory. Joining the PTSA keeps you in the know—members receive updates on community events, parent socials, and volunteer opportunities. Donate to Ribbons for Rye Neck:  Rally behind Rye Neck’s fall fundraiser & receive an RN window cling to show your community support. Our goal is to raise $30,000 by October 8th!  Check it out Volunteer:  Whether it’s as a class parent, at the book fair, or supporting events like the Panther Party, we have plenty of ways to get involved. Attend events : Simply sign up, show up, and have some fun! Mark Your Calendars – Upcoming District Events: September 25 – Parent Social September 26 – PTSA Meet & Greet Coffee + General Membership Meeting, 9 AM, DW Auditorium I’m excited to serve as your PTSA President this year. Please reach out with your questions or ideas. Thank you for your support—together, we’ll make this an incredible 65th year! Elizabeth Gillespie PTSA, President News from the Booster Club       Greetings for the 2025-2026 school year! We are gearing up for an exciting year filled with community events, athletic contests, theatre productions and PANTHER PRIDE! We can't wait to see the Rye Neck community back together again this fall!      The Booster Club’s mission is to build school spirit by supporting athletics, theatre and other initiatives at Rye Neck Schools. The organization at its core is about fostering community spirit. We hope that you will join us to support this mission!  2025-26 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE Show us your Panther Pride and support the Booster Club today! Membership fees support our programs, events, scholarships and spirit efforts. Supporter levels are as follows: Bronze Supporter - $20 (includes panther magnet) Silver Supporter - $50 (includes panther magnet & lawn sign) Gold Supporter - $100 (includes magnet, lawn sign and inflatable lawn display) Alumni Supporter - $15 Coach/Staff Supporter - $5  Join online at  https://givebutter.com/ryeneckboostersupporter25-26  or in-person at one of the Open House events held in September. HOMECOMING – OCTOBER 10 & 11 Homecoming is a favorite time to show our Panther Pride!  Save the Date for Homecoming events on Friday and Saturday! Come by the Athletic Fields to support your favorite team or find a new one! Check out the awesome Athlete's Village, visit our Spirit Wear pop up shop or enjoy a variety of activities sponsored by the Booster Club! This community-wide event brings out large crowds including Pre-K to alumni! Don't forget to wear your Panther colors!  BREWS & BOO's Fall Event – OCTOBER 23rd Save the date for the Booster Club's newest Fall Event which will be held at Barley Beach House in Rye, NY from 7pm-10pm!  Get in the Halloween Spirit, have some fun with your friends, and help support the amazing initiatives that the Booster Club has planned for 2025-26! Tickets will be on sale late September!  FALL THEATRE PRODUCTION - NOVEMBER 13 & 14 Rye Neck theatre's production of The Crucible is sure to be a rousing success! Let's pack the theater and show our favorite actors, crew members, musicians and directors how much they mean to our community!  PANTHER SPIRITWEAR You won't want to miss the Booster Club's latest Rye Neck Panthers Spiritwear. New gear will be available in person: 9/17- FEB Pop Up 2:30-3:30pm 10/10 & 10/11 - Homecoming Merchandise Tables Merchandise will also be available in an online store this Fall! Keep an eye out for the link!  CONNECT WITH THE RYE NECK BOOSTER CLUB Email Blasts: Receive Booster Club news, event information and sports updates. Facebook & Instagram: Follow Rye Neck Booster Club on social media!  Website: Check out our club at Ryeneckboosterclub.com; Bookmark our website to stay up-to-date on all our happenings!  Please email any questions to RNBoosterclub@ryeneck.org The Booster Club officers and our extended leadership team are looking forward to seeing you all out on the fields or at the shows this year. President – Jen Abbey Vice President - Heather Harvey Secretary - Stacie Brenkovich Treasurer - Laura Evangelista Welcome Rye Neck families to the 2025–26 school year!            The Rye Neck School Foundation (RNSF) is proud to support our district in ways that go above and beyond the annual operating budget. We provide grants to teachers, administrators and students for creative programs and initiatives that elevate the educational, artistic and athletic experiences of every Rye Neck student.      Thanks to your generosity, RNSF awarded nearly $90,000 across 23 grants during the 2024–25 school year! Highlights included: A book vending machine at Daniel Warren The One School, One Book program at F.E. Bellows The Panthers’ Den breakout space at the Middle School A student-directed theater troupe at the High School Two new scoreboards for the MS/HS athletic fields Upgraded lighting and technology for the MS/HS Performing Arts Center This summer, we kicked off the 2025-26 school year with 5 brand new grants, including: College tours for HS juniors Mosaic tile art class for HS students Fifth grade book club books F.E. Bellows School Store (Year 2!) Written Out Loud storytelling program for MS students You can view the full list of funded grants on our website at www.ryeneckschoolfoundation.org . Here’s what’s ahead for 2025–26: October: Panther Pavers installed at the HS entrance—look for your family’s name! November 15: The Polar Plunge is BACK—don’t miss it! April 17: Save the date for the RNSF Spring Fundraiser How you can help: Visit our website and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates. Volunteer with us! Email: ryeneckschoolfoundation@gmail.com. Most importantly, keep supporting the programs that make a real difference for our children. We look forward to an incredible 2025-26 school year! RNSF Board President – Jennifer Soussa Executive Vice President – Jaime Santa Treasurer – Debra Cunningham Secretary– Arielle Diskin VP of Fundraising – Erin Hagstrom VP of Grants – Josh Moreau  Rye Neck Schools 310 Hornidge Road Mamaroneck, NY 10543 Follow Us @RyeNeckSchools  on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) Board of Education Erica Wagner, President Nikki Barker, Vice President Jason Carmel, Trustee Halli Gatenio, Trustee Ruth Homberg, Trustee Alex Rainert, Trustee

    Monday, Sep 15 2025