News from Our Schools: June 26, 2026

News from Our Schools June 26, 2026 New Rochelle High School Celebrates 128th Commencement With diplomas in hand and accomplishments in the classroom, athletic fields, and the arts, 590 New Rochelle High School seniors celebrated graduation Wednesday at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. The Class of 2026 marked two historic milestones, becoming the 128th graduating class in district history and the 100th to graduate from the iconic high school building on Clove Road.  “No two people in this room were ever supposed to have the same story. We all started at different places, we faced different challenges, we carried different dreams,” said Class of 2026 President Stone Pride. “This isn’t just a graduating class. It’s a room full of possibilities, and that’s what makes this moment so exciting. The future is waiting for us to build it.”  Valedictorian Corey Seelenfreund said, “Embrace the new, the challenges, and the independence. By having the opportunity to make your own decisions, you’ll have the opportunity to explore what matters most to you. I’m so incredibly excited to see what we all accomplish.”  City of New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert told graduates to “Know that you are loved by your families, by your communities, by this city, and that this love travels with you wherever you go … we are so very proud of each and every one of you; not just today, but every day when you show up and work hard.”  “With every breath you are given on this earth, I dare you to love,” Student Government President Carlos Del Aguila challenged his classmates. “While you are still young, while your heart still beats, and while you can still speak, love. Because that is what the little child that still lives in each of you would have done.” NRHS Alumnus and Board of Education President William Iannuzzi advised the graduates to face the adversity that life brings and succeed in spite of it. “Your future is not defined by what has happened to you. It is not defined by your mistakes or your setbacks. It is defined by what you choose to do next. Your class has already shown that. You have shown that young people are not the leaders of tomorrow. They are the leaders of today.”  “You have lived, breathed, and championed what we call that ‘One New Rochelle’ spirit,” Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds said to the graduates. “We see that brilliant spirit in your diverse talents, our artists, musicians, and performers who fill our spaces with color and soul. We see it in our student leaders, our National Honor Society inductees, and in our fierce advocates who refuse to stay silent and always stand up for what is right.”  “The future of New Rochelle High School and the City of New Rochelle is bright,” said Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles. “It is even brighter for what is yet to come. This is just the beginning, not the end of a journey. We will always be here for you. You are a small group of young people who have taken the first step in preparing for your future. The best is yet to come.”  Class of 2026 Excels The Class of 2026 has excelled in every sphere from academics to athletics to the arts. Seven graduates are headed to Ivy League schools: Brown University (2), Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania (3), and Yale University. The class boasts one National Merit Scholar and three National Merit Scholarship Program Finalists.  Five graduates received QuestBridge full-ride scholarships to Colgate University, Harvard University, Hamilton College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the University of Pennsylvania. Together, their scholarships are valued at more than $2 million.  Approximately one-third* of students graduated with a grade point average of 3.75 or higher. Throughout the course of their high school years, the Class of 2026 took 2,140 Advanced Placement courses; 88 students earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy; and 70 students earned the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness.  In athletics, New Rochelle Class of 2026 had one All-America Soccer Team member and Division I Player of the Year, and the New York State Singles Tennis champion. What’s more, 21 students committed to play their respective sport at a Division I, II, or III college or university.  In the arts, New Rochelle’s graduating class had one Metro Award winner for Outstanding Performance in a Featured Female-Identified Role, and one All-State Symphony Orchestra musician. Thirty-eight students will attend highly selective schools, which include:  Barnard College  Boston University (2) Brandeis University  Carnegie Mellon University  Clark University  Clemson University Colgate University (2) Connecticut College  Georgia Institute of Technology  Hamilton College Harvard University Lehigh University  Loyola Marymount University Macaulay Honors College at City College  Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2)  McGill University  Michigan State University  Northwestern University Purdue University (4) San Diego State University Skidmore College (2) Spelman College  Tulane University  University of Chicago University of Georgia  University of Maryland, College Park  University of Michigan University of Notre Dame University of Pennsylvania Vanderbilt University Vassar College  Wellesley College In all, 420 Class of 2026 graduates will attend college or university. In addition to the above-named schools, graduates will attend: American University Bard College  Binghamton University Brigham Young University CUNY City College  CUNY Baruch College CUNY Hunter College Drexel University  Elon University  Emerson College  Fairfield University  Fashion Institute of Technology  Fordham University  George Washington University  Hampton University Howard University  Ithaca College  Iona University  Manhattanville University Marist College  Misericordia University Morgan State University Mercy University  Monroe University  New York Institute of Technology  Northeastern University Pace University  Pennsylvania State University Providence College  Quinnipiac University  Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute  Sacred Heart University St. Thomas Aquinas College Siena University  University at Albany SUNY Delhi  SUNY Geneseo  SUNY Maritime  SUNY Purchase  Stony Brook University Syracuse University  Temple University  University at Buffalo University of Connecticut University of Delaware University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island Westchester Community College  Wheaton College The diverse career paths of the Class of 2026 also extend beyond traditional four-year campuses.  Twenty-two of this year’s graduates will immediately enter careers in the trades Eleven students are joining the United States Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines)  Thirty-four graduates will begin their careers in the workforce  Four students will take a structured gap year Six New Rochelle Grads Ready to Soar Four New Rochelle High School seniors celebrated a major milestone recently as they graduated from a school-to-work program that prepared them for meaningful employment and life beyond the classroom. The students – Josiah, Luis, Justin, and Cyrus – graduated from Project SEARCH, a partnership between the City School District of New Rochelle, Montefiore New Rochelle, ACCES-VR, and Ability Beyond. Participants in the program acquire not only job skills but the confidence and independence needed to succeed. The program is a unique, business-led, one-year, school-to-work program that takes place entirely at Montefiore New Rochelle. It combines classroom instruction from a New Rochelle High School teacher, career exploration from a job coach, and relevant job-skills training through strategically designed internships in Montefiore New Rochelle. The program is designed for students with disabilities in their last year of high school. The goal of the program is to provide job skills so the students can obtain employment upon graduation, either at Montefiore or in the community.  The students work in various departments of the hospital, such as the Kitchen, Cafeteria, Environmental Services Department, Emergency Department, Radiology Department, MMG, and Medical Records.  Dr. Corey W. Reynolds, superintendent of the City School District of New Rochelle, spoke at the graduation, which was held in the Health and Education Training Institute at Montefiore and attended by about 100 people. For information about Project SEARCH, please contact Kathy Barbara, Kbarbara@nredlearn.org; Jackie McKendry, Jmckendry@nredlearn.org; or Angela Cermele, Acermele@montefiore.org.   Project S.A.I.L. Graduation Projects S.A.I.L. graduates celebrated commencement by preparing and serving a brunch to show off their culinary skills. The event was attended by parents and families, Board of Education Trustees Jessica Klein and Makeda Lewis, Superintendent's Cabinet Members, and other school district leaders. The S.A.I.L. program prepares students for careers in the culinary and hospitality industries. Students and the culinary education team also celebrated a bittersweet milestone with the retirement of Assistant Director of Special Education Maureen Avione, who has led the program for many years.   The Class of 2030 is Bound for High School Isaac E. Young Middle School celebrated its eighth grade moving up ceremony in the New Rochelle High School gymnasium on Wednesday, June 24. The ceremony was attended by friends and family, school district administrators and Board of Education members, and school leaders. The eighth-grade chorus sang Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” to start the ceremony before speakers shared wisdom and advice with the rising eighth grade class. Class Valedictorian Alex Lanza addressed classmates, saying “Middle school taught us resilience, responsibility, and the importance of supporting one another. Isaac has taught us much more than academics. It has taught us about community and how vital it is to appreciate those who support us.”  Superintendent of Schools Dr. Corey W. Reynolds implored the students to look out for each other, and especially the most vulnerable individuals. “When the least of us is threatened, we are all at risk. You have a voice and purpose. You will come across an opportunity to speak up for someone. You will come across an opportunity to say something is not a good idea and should not be done. Learn to use your voice.”  Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Dr. Olivine Roberts, celebrated Dr. Tawanda Robinson, IEYMS Principal, for her 27 years of service to the City School District of New Rochelle and presented her with a pin honoring her years of dedication to our students.  Dr. Robinson praised the IEYMS Class of 2026 as she prepared to send them to high school. “There is no way we can encapsulate everything we want to say about this class at this time. They are simply amazing, they are ready for high school and we need you to take care of them.”  Class Salutatorian Affan Paracha shared the students’ many accomplishments with New Rochelle High School Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles, who welcomed the class to the next step of their academic careers.   On Thursday, June 25, it was Albert Leonard Middle School’s turn to celebrate its eighth grade class moving up to New Rochelle High School. Students, families, supporters, school leaders, and school district leaders joined to celebrate their accomplishments and their future academic pursuits.  Board of Education Vice President Makeda Lewis, an Albert Leonard alumna, applauded the Knicks basketball championship and reminded students that the team faced adversity but succeeded as a team. She advised the students to similarly not to let anything stop them from achieving all they can be. “In these next four years, you may feel that you are nearly 30 points behind, closing a deficit that may seem impossible. If the Knicks can break a 30-year drought, you, too, can do anything. You can do that with your teachers, your parents, your family. That’s your team. They don’t go anywhere. The team that you have here also stays with you. As you go through this next journey, you’re not going to go it alone.”  The ceremony was the last for Principal Dr. Camille Edwards-Thomas, who will become Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services on July 1. She thanked the teachers, staff, and retirees from Albert Leonard Middle School, and told students to cherish their middle school memories. “I hope you remember becoming more confident, I hope you remember learning things about yourself, I hope you remember the friendships you’ve built, the challenges you overcame, the teachers who encouraged you, and the moments you realized you were capable of more than you thought.”  Class Valedictorian Evan Wang thanked his family and teachers for helping him, emphasizing the importance of having a support system. “Goals are important not just in school, but in your whole life. A lot of the time, you can’t make your goal happen alone. All the people surrounding me throughout my life have all helped me grow to the person I am today.” Four Alums Inducted Into Hall of Fame From the courtroom and classroom to the airwaves and community organizations, four distinguished New Rochelle High School graduates have earned a place in the school’s Hall of Fame.  The honorees – a lawyer and philanthropist, a sports radio show host, a civic leader and an educator – were inducted June 12 during a ceremony celebrating their accomplishments. Spanning six decades of graduating classes, they were recognized for their professional achievements, leadership and service to the community. This year’s ceremony brings the total number of inductees to 100. The following alumni were named: Charles Douglas Dixon, Esq., Class of 1966. An accomplished attorney, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dixon’s career has been defined by leadership, service and an unwavering commitment to community empowerment. He serves as Chairman of the Arthur S. Dixon Family Foundation, through which more than $400,000 has been awarded in grants, scholarships, financial assistance, and community support benefiting students, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, churches and youth development programs.  Dixon is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and Georgetown University Law Center, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees respectively. Through both personal and foundation initiatives, Mr. Dixon has supported transformative organizations and programs, including the Charles Hamilton Houston Legal Institute at Georgetown University Law Center, Boys & Girls Clubs of America in New Rochelle and Mount Vernon, Eagle Academy, Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, the Bronx Children’s Museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the University of the West Indies, among many others.  Craig Carton, Class of 1987. Carton began his career at New Rochelle High School doing televised, play-by-play commentary for the Huguenots basketball and football games in 1986 and 1987. At Syracuse University, he was the play-by-play voice of the Syracuse Orange Women’s Basketball team and the host of a Sunday night call-in show. After graduating from college, Carton worked for radio stations in Buffalo, Cleveland and Philadelphia. For 10 years he was the most listened to Sports Talk Radio Host in the country and ranked the second as the most important and influential host and show in America. In 2024, Carton was inducted into the NY Radio Hall of Fame and was hired by Fox Sports to host a national television show. He also hosts the Carton Show on WFAN. Luis Gabriel “Gabe” Sanchez Rose, Class of 2010. At New Rochelle High School, Sanchez Rose was active in the Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute and in supporting the creation of a Latin American social studies elective. He also participated in two leadership programs, one at Brown University’s Institute for Global Engagement; and the other at the Angelo del Toro Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute.  He went on to attend the University at Albany where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Latin American, Caribbean & Latino Studies and Globalization Studies, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. While an undergraduate and graduate student, Gabe presented over 26 academic papers on Decoloniality and Border Thinking, Indigenous History and Cosmology, Haitian History, Latino/a/x Identity (at Brown University, UPenn, U of Toronto, LASA).  He has returned to NRHS numerous times to present at Youth Leadership Conferences. He currently teaches history at the Brearley School in Manhattan, one of the top five private schools in the nation. Sanchez Rose and his family have supported an elementary school in Ayacucho, Peru, for the past five years. He lives in New Rochelle. Matthew Ricker, Class of 2014. A proud New Rochelle native, Ricker serves as Assistant Director for Student-Alumni Engagement and an adjunct professor at Iona University. In his role, he leads the university’s flagship Gaels Go Further Mentoring Programs, and teaches a course on career readiness, bridging the gap between education and professional success for the next generation.  A two-time alumnus of Iona, Ricker earned his bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Media in 2018, and his master’s degree in Public Relations in 2024, and was selected as the commencement speaker for his master’s graduation. Beyond higher education, he is a dedicated voice for local business and community development. At his own high school graduation, he received the Leonard Talner Award, honoring the classmate judged to have done the most for and brought the most honor to NRHS.   "One of the highlights about the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame is having the opportunity to celebrate the intergenerational excellence we have within our community,” said Devon Shanley, House 4 principal at New Rochelle High School. “The four individuals we honored this year represent the true spirit of New Rochelle in their steadfast dedication to supporting the community, creating meaningful impact for others, and bringing a sense of purpose and joy to their life work." Albert Leonard Students Study Law for a Day Imagine going to law school as a seventh grader. Fifty Albert Leonard Middle School students got to do just that when they participated in the New York State Judicial Institute’s “A Day in Law School” program on June 8. Designed to bridge classroom civics with real-world experience, the program introduced students to the American legal system through hands-on learning, collaboration, and mentorship from legal professionals. Throughout the day, students worked in small groups alongside law students to explore how courts function, learn legal terminology, and analyze landmark court cases. A highlight of the experience was an in-depth examination of the landmark Supreme Court case Tinker v. Des Moines, which established that students do not lose their First Amendment free speech rights at the schoolhouse gate. Students applied the principles of the case to contemporary scenarios, developing arguments, evaluating evidence, and considering multiple perspectives. Student representatives from each group then presented their arguments before an assembly of more than 150 middle school students from across Westchester County.  Students embraced the opportunity to engage in authentic legal reasoning. “I really liked meeting the law students, learning all the law vocabulary, as well as discussing and analyzing the cases,” said Jake Sparrow. Fellow student, Lawrence Bornholz, said “I liked how we argued our cases in the afternoon like it was a mock trial.”  Already sounding like a lawyer, Michael Venar said, “I liked how we explored different points of view and shared our evidence as a lawyer. I enjoyed the scenario we worked on; it was very professional. Both sides made great points, and it was a good experience for myself as someone considering the field of law.”  Madison Gialanella, another student, said, “I liked hearing other people's opinions on the court case and learning about students’ rights in school.” Students were especially inspired by keynote speaker Judge Kathie E. Davidson, Dean of the New York State Judicial Institute. Judge Davidson’s message resonated deeply with students as she shared that she is not only an alumna of the City School District of New Rochelle, but also a proud graduate of Albert Leonard Middle School. “Watching our students confidently engage with judges, attorneys, and law students was truly inspiring,” said ALMS Humanities Chair David Luhman. “The program brought civics to life and showed our students that their voices matter. It was exciting to see them develop a deeper understanding of the law while beginning to envision future careers in public service and the legal profession.” The day served as a powerful reminder that civic learning is most meaningful when students can experience it firsthand, transforming textbook concepts into authentic opportunities for inquiry, collaboration, and future aspirations. IEYMS Teacher Spreads the Word on STEAMfest at Conference Innovation isn’t just about high-tech gadgets. Sometimes, it’s a way to connect schools and communities.   That was the message Leidy Rodriguez shared with educators at a conference hosted at Stanford University in California. Leidy, a special education science teacher at Isaac E. Young Middle School, was invited to speak at the conference showcasing the work of Wipro Fellows. Wipro is a prestigious, multi-year fellowship for science educators. The conference offered teachers the opportunity to share their work in science education. Rodriguez said she was both inspired and honored to share more about IEYMS Ignites Innovation: STEAMfest, which featured science exploration, student project presentations and family fun. Her presentation highlighted the school-wide inaugural event and included project goals, outcomes, impact and next steps for the planning of next year’s much-anticipated festival.     Leidy said teachers at IEYMS wanted to give students a chance to showcase their work in a fun and dynamic atmosphere.  “What resulted was an event that engaged the entire school community and represented all aspects of STEAM education,” said Rodriguez. “It was extremely rewarding to have the chance to share our process, our impact and our success with others.”  Dr. Tawanda Robinson, middle school principal, said “IEYMS is fortunate to have so many talented teachers who strive to provide students with authentic experiences that showcase the brilliance of our students.”  Julie Verville, middle school science chair, said “Teacher-led conferences are vital for celebrating innovation, empowering educators and cultivating community. Ms. Rodriguez’s presentation showcases our school’s commitment to impactful learning. By sharing her expertise on a larger stage, she strengthens the collaborative culture that helps both educators and students thrive.”     Albert Leonard Middle School Student Makes Broadway Debut Christopher Woodley, a seventh grader at Albert Leonard Middle School, made his Broadway debut in April in the acclaimed revival of August Wilson’s Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, playing the role of Reuben Scott. The production stars Taraji P. Henson and Cedric the Entertainer and is directed by the legendary Debbie Allen. Set in Pittsburgh in 1911 during a pivotal era of migration and transformation, Joe Turner’s Come and Gone centers on Seth and Bertha Holly, played by Cedric and Henson, who run a warm, orderly boardinghouse for those navigating uncertain paths. But when the mysterious Herald Loomis, played by Joshua Boone, arrives with his young daughter, the stillness of the house begins to shift. This timeless American classic is a story of personal awakening, collective memory, and human connection. “The most thrilling part about being on Broadway is getting to connect with a live audience and receive their reactions in real time. It’s an honor to be part of this amazing cast and to help tell a story written by the Pulitzer Prize-winning August Wilson,” said Christopher.  Joe Turner’s Come and Gone runs for a limited engagement from April 25 through July 26 at the Barrymore Theatre. Christopher performs four times a week: twice on Wednesday, and once each on Friday and Sunday. Green Schools Fair Shows Sustainability in Action New Rochelle’s eco-warriors, aka green club members, showcased their efforts at this year’s Green Schools Fair, with projects highlighting vegetable gardens, beekeeping, food waste, composting, pollinator gardens, greenhouses, and more. “It was incredible to see our students united in celebration of their achievements in sustainability,” said Mia Baudry, the district's Sustainability and Environmental Coordinator. “I hope they went home knowing that they are driving a real movement in our schools, in New Rochelle and beyond. None of this work would be possible without our devoted teachers who step up to lead green clubs in their schools on top of everything else they do. I would also like to thank our valued vendors and community partners for so enthusiastically engaging with our students and for fostering their curiosity!"  Baudry thanked all those who made the event possible including: Dr. Corey W. Reynolds, superintendent, for his active participation. The students were honored to share their work with you.  The New Rochelle High School Green Club students - and their advisor Carmen Glenn - for the invaluable help.   Our vendor Joshua Schwartz at Viking Pure Solutions for the gorgeous drawstring bags! The students love them!  Our vendor Marco Baranta from Remu-Milburn for bringing delicious cookies and supplying pizza parties for our green clubs.   Our grounds and custodial teams without whom none of our work could get done. Carlos Leal and our business office for wholeheartedly supporting our initiatives! Kyana Mangol and Wendy Ochoa-Grosso for supplying our students with snacks. Last but not least, thanks to our Director of Facilities, Keith Watkins, for his crucial support of the Green Schools Committee. This was his last Green Fair before his retirement. We will miss you, Keith!  Huguenot Academy Moves to to Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle Huguenot Academy, the New Rochelle High School alternative program, will move to the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s Remington Clubhouse, effective July 1, 2026. The City School District of New Rochelle Board of Education officially authorized the five-year, $340,000 annual lease agreement at its June 17 meeting.  The move brings Huguenot Academy’s 70 students into a bright, versatile space for the 2026-2027 school year. By consolidating both academic classrooms and physical education space under one roof﹘eliminating the need for separate leased spaces﹘the relocation will save the school district approximately $138,000 per year. For the past four years, Huguenot Academy has been operating out of a space at 140 Huguenot Street owned by Monroe University.  “The move to Remington is what is best for our Huguenot Academy students, faculty, and staff while being cost-effective for the school district,” said Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. “It’s a win-win that offers a state-of-the-art academic setting while preserving our small, student-centered learning environment. It creates seamless opportunities for our students to transition to Boys & Girls Club and New Rochelle High School programs right after their regular academic day. Most advantageous for our larger New Rochelle Community, it also returns a learning environment to our historic Lincoln Avenue Corridor after many, many years.”  The agreement gives Huguenot Academy dedicated use of the property on school days from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and will not interfere with any existing before- or after-school community programs at the Remington Clubhouse.  “We believe the Remington Clubhouse is the best option for our students to thrive, building beautifully upon our existing partnership with the Boys & Girls Club,” said Board of Education Vice President Makeda Lewis.  Huguenot Academy Director Dr. Merica Neufville said that students and staff are excited for the transition. “The space is bright, comfortable, and versatile, where our students will feel comfortable and at home. They will truly appreciate being able to enjoy recreational and academic space in the same location.” “The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is happy to welcome Huguenot Academy students,” said CEO Becky Mazzanobile. “We are deeply invested in serving New Rochelle High School students and see this move as an opportunity to further strengthen and expand our continuum of achievement-driven programming, youth development services, and career pathways to future success. Students need safe spaces and support from caring adults. The space is designed to inspire learning, leadership, and personal growth. We can help youths build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive during the school day, beyond graduation, and throughout their lives.” The lease will run through the conclusion of the school year on June 30, 2031.  New Rochelle Takes Metro Award Juliana LoPresti took home the Metro for best supporting performance by a female for her comedic turn as Chorn in the musical, “Firebringer.” The highly coveted Metro Awards are the equivalent of the Tony’s for high school theater. “It was an absolute honor to receive this award! I was in utter disbelief and shock when they called my name," said LoPresti. "But I couldn’t be more grateful! Seeing my hard work recognized was an absolute gift!” The 2026 Metropolitan High School Theater Awards recognized outstanding achievements from 74 schools across Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties, as well as Bergen County in New Jersey. Every aspect of musical theater is recognized by the awards including acting, singing, dancing, choreography, direction and stage management. In all, 42 awards were distributed. New Rochelle High School Track Team Shines at States New Rochelle High School athletes competed in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Outdoor Track and Field Championships on June 13 and 14 in Webster, New York. The boys team, with senior members Anthony Athanase, Adonis Boymandija, Max Pirson, and junior Jackson ORourke, placed in the 4x8 with a time of 7:48.02. Their finish was second in Class A and third in the federation. On the girls team, sophomore Olivia Solomon took second place in the 800 meter. The 4x400 meter relay team placed second and third in the Championship race and Class A race with Sophia Ochoa, Alexis Smith, Olivia Solomon, Elisa Crisp and Sofia Magazzu. Ryan Joseph competed in the Long Jump, and Sophia Ochoa competed in the Triple Jump.  The 4x100 meter team was Elisa Crisp, Ryan Joseph, Alivia Smith, and Alexis Smith. Alexis Smith took seventh place in the 400 meter hurdles race. Alivia Smith placed eleventh in 100 meter hurdles, and Elisa Crisp finished seventh in the 200 meter. Congratulations to all the athletes for their hard work. We're all so proud of you! Sights and Sounds from Around the District Cheers to 25 Years! Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Roberts and Executive Director for Educational Leadership and Early Learning Dr. Cracco surprise Barnard Principal Shelli Owens with her 25-year pin at Barnard's kindergarten moving up ceremony. Graduation Congratulations! Congratulations to New Rochelle High School Social Studies Teacher Alprentice McCutchen for successfully defending his dissertation for his Ph.D. in Education. Dr. McCutchen was part of the 2020 cohort at the CUNY Graduate Center's Urban Education Program. Thank You for Your Service to Students Thanks to outgoing Board of Education Student Representative Camryn Tung and Trustee Gwen Clayton-Fernandes for their service to City School District of New Rochelle students. The Board of Education presented commendations to both at their June 18 meeting. Goldsmith Named Board of Education Student Representative for 2026-2027 Congratulations to rising senior Lev Goldsmith, who was appointed Student Representative to the Board of Education at its June 18 meeting.   New Rochelle High School Senior Awards New Rochelle Reads Check out all the great community events happening now! Click for Community Events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Friday, Jun 26 2026

News from Our Schools: June 12, 2026

News from Our Schools June 12, 2026 New Rochelle Goes Global at Destination Imagination A group of second graders from George M. Davis Elementary competed recently at the Destination Imagination Global Finals in Kansas City, Mo., the first New Rochelle team to do so in the program’s history.  Known as the Color Whirl Kids, the team was the youngest of more than 600 from around the world to compete. Destination Imagination is a not-for-profit educational program that promotes creativity by having students solve open-ended challenges that blend science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Teams develop a solution to a challenge over a three- to six-month season, then present it at a tournament.  "I loved performing for so many people and watching other teams perform from around the world," said Emma B., one of the team members.  "I loved building the set this year and learning the different stage makeup techniques,” said Joey G.  “The best part of Global Finals was the opening ceremony and seeing kids from different countries."   The Davis team chose the Fine Arts challenge titled "Becoming Super." They had to create an origin story about how one character becomes a superhero and another character becomes a supervillain when placed in the same situation. The team also had to create a technical costume using the principles of STEM and use stage makeup to enhance the performance. All teams had a budget of $175 and eight minutes to present their performance.  “The children did an outstanding job tying for 28th place of 56 teams in their challenge,” said Marissa Beattie, parent advisor. “They finished 20th in their performance and in their team choice elements, which the appraisers called "a color explosion."  The Global Finals competition kicked off with a "welcome ceremony" where each state and country marched into the arena in their own "creativity olympics." The procession was followed by the playing of each nation’s anthem. Countries represented included Australia, China, Guatemala, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Canada, Turkey, and Ukraine. There was also representation from more than 30 states. After their performance Friday the students had an opportunity to explore other activities including a 150-foot-long cave simulation and Mad Science-style, hands-on experiments. There were also opportunities to build your own drone and practice carving cardboard on ChompSaws.  Finally, the students participated in Destination Imagination's flagship event: pin trading where the kids traded their 2026 New York pins with children from around the world. Their collections now include China, Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Ohio, Maryland, New Hampshire, California and so many more. Green Schools Committee Grows Joy From restoring pollinator gardens to combating food waste, the Green Schools Committee has been working to protect the environment all across the City School District of New Rochelle this year. At the June 2 Board of Education Meeting, members of the Green Schools Committee provided an update of their activities. Students from Lucia Brea’s fourth grade ENL class from Jefferson Elementary School described the steps they took to restore the pollinator garden after it was inadvertently damaged. Pollinator gardens composed of native plants act as hosts for pollinator insects such as bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds. “Pollinator gardens help grow more food by supplying pollination, which leads to more fruits and vegetables in the garden. They also bring people together by providing opportunities for learning and teamwork while creating a healthier and more sustainable environment,” said the students.  Fifth-grade students from Terri Agravat’s STEAM class at Trinity Elementary represented the eight schools that participated in the Harvesting Change Food Waste initiative in partnership with the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation (CELF). The Trinity students conducted food waste labs over the course of three days during their fourth and fifth grade lunch periods.  During the labs, the students measured the amount of food waste at their schools and identified ways to reduce waste through sharing tables and other methods. The students conducted labs three times during fourth and fifth-grade lunch periods.  “On average, six pounds of partially eaten fruits and vegetables and 22 pounds of partially eaten food were wasted per day,” the students reported. “Additionally, an average of 19 pounds of liquid and 16 pounds of non-food items were discarded each day. We also collected 229 trays weighing 14 pounds per day.”  Students put 170 items on the share table each day. When extrapolated over the whole school year, students estimated that their school’s fourth- and fifth-grade lunches generated about 1.3 tons of waste per year. To reduce this number, the students hope to standardize “share tables” across the school district, compost food scraps, and implement reusable lunch trays.  Environmental Sustainability Coordinator Mia Baudry said the districtwide Green Team works with the district's Purchasing and Facilities Departments to make our schools more sustainable. The Green Team also works with the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation, Healthy Yards New Rochelle, New Rochelle Parks and Recreation, Green NR, the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center, and is supported by the New Rochelle Fund for Excellence in Education.  To wrap up the presentation, Henry Barnard School students passed out basil plants they had grown in the newly revitalized Amy’s Greenhouse to Board of Education Trustees and audience members.  The New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence supports the Green Schools Committee. Flute Scholars Named at Isaac E. Young Middle School Four promising musicians at Isaac E. Young Middle School have been named Flute Scholars, an honor that came with the gift of high quality flutes to support their continued musical growth. Granted by the New York Flute Club, the awards celebrate the students' commitment, achievement, and promise as emerging performers.  Sixth grader Javier Flores and seventh graders Camila Senteno, Lia Godoy, and Stella Spillane received their flutes on June 8 as part of a partnership with the New York Flute Club made possible by City School District of New Rochelle Board of Education Trustee Makeda Lewis, who also learned to play the flute as a student in New Rochelle schools.  “These students were selected in recognition of their exemplary dedication to their instrument. It is our hope that these high-quality instruments will support their continued musical growth and inspire them to further invest in their development as musicians, with the goal of one day becoming members of the specialized PAVE program at NRHS and beyond,” said Matthew Lucero, director of Pre-K-12 performing and visual arts. Board of Education Trustee Lewis began playing the recorder when she was a student at Ward Elementary School, and then transitioned to playing the flute one year later, which she played all through high school. She wanted to make that experience available to more students who, without this program, might not have had the opportunity.  "Playing the flute was transformative. I played with PAVE, and we got to the city to play on stage at Carnegie Hall. It was the first time we got to perform on stage. It gave you confidence. It taught you a whole new skill that you didn't think you could learn: to read and play music. It stays with you. Even as an adult, you still have that musical ear," said Lewis.  Flute Club member Fred Marcusa took the time to explain the unique qualities and differences among the donated flutes, shared how the instruments were sourced, discussed the mission of the New York Flute Club, invited students to future performances, and performed on one of the donated instruments so that students could experience its sound firsthand. As recipients of these special instruments, the four students have also been granted membership in the New York Flute Club, providing them with additional opportunities to engage with and learn from the broader flute community. Founded in 1920 by eminent flutist Georges Barrère, composer Lamar Stringfield, and a group of their associates, The New York Flute Club sponsors concerts, workshops, a flute fair, competitions, and other events to promote flute music. Rabbi Pinkney Celebrates Jews of Color “Hey, are you Jewish?” It was a simple question asked at a party. But in the case of Kendell Pinkney, a black rabbi, playwright, and activist, it was the perfect starting point to discuss Jews of Color.  Rabbi Pinkney, who was on the receiving end of the question, spoke recently to about 250 New Rochelle High School students at an event commemorating Jewish heritage. Pinkney, who first became interested in Judaism while studying at Oberlin College, has described himself as a “child of the Black church, and a convert” to Judaism.  “From the moment Rabbi Pinkney began to speak, he had the students hooked,” said Jillian Chipman, social studies teacher. “Most students at New Rochelle High School do not connect African Americans and Judaism, but that is exactly what Rabbi Pinkney hoped to accomplish by the end of his 40-minute conversation.”  Rabbi Pinkney went on to describe the incredible life he has chosen to live and the challenges he has faced. He also took the time to answer questions from the students. One student asked: “How did your parents feel about you abandoning their religion and choosing to practice Judaism?” Another asked: “What made you want to practice Judaism?” Rabbi Pinkney aimed to help students connect with Judaism in a new way. He said he envisioned a community where students look past religious labels to appreciate the true character of each individual. He also sought to engage students in meaningful dialogue about combating antisemitism. "Rabbi Pinkney’s message teaches young people to move past labels and focus on true character,” said Social Studies Department Chair Gustavo Barbosa. “He is building a foundation of genuine empathy. Equipping students to combat antisemitism through meaningful dialogue is a powerful step toward a safer, more inclusive future." Rabbi Pinkney is a Brooklyn-based playwright, arts and culture advocate, educator, and rabbi. His work has been commissioned, developed, and presented at venues across the US and Canada. In addition to his creative work, Kendell is the Director of Jewish Learning and Artist-in-Residence at the arts and culture organization, Reboot.  Additionally, he serves as the founding Artistic Director of The Workshop, one of Reboot's signature programs, providing an arts and culture fellowship for emerging creatives of BIPOC-Jewish heritage. This visit was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Westchester Jewish Council.  New K-2 Chromebook Protocol for 2026-2027 School Year To increase efficiency with instructional technology, the City School District of New Rochelle is shifting device management for our kindergarten through grade 2 students. Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, the school district will no longer assign Chromebooks to individual students in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. Instead, devices will be housed and managed directly within classrooms using centralized Chromebook carts and will only be used when needed for instructional time in the classroom. Kindergarten through second-grade students’ Chromebooks will remain in their classrooms at all times.  This shift is designed to support both classroom teachers and students while maximizing our district resources. The school district believes the benefits of doing so will include: Minimized Instructional Downtime: Students will no longer lose learning time due to forgotten or uncharged individual devices. Reduced Wear and Tear: Devices will be kept in a secure, stationary cart, which significantly decreases the risk of accidental drops and lost chargers. Age-Appropriate Workflow: Since K-2 students rarely require take-home devices for homework, a centralized classroom model aligns better with their developmental needs and daily usage patterns. Simplified Inventory Management: Teachers and IT staff can more easily track, update, and maintain devices when they remain in a designated cart. Any individual devices and chargers currently assigned to K-2 students will be collected before the end of the current school year and repurposed in new classroom carts. To ensure district inventory is protected, any devices not returned by the end of the year will be remotely disabled, preventing them from being accessed outside of school. If families have any questions regarding the updated protocol, they may contact tech-help@nredlearn.org or their child’s school.  New Rochelle Seniors Get “IRL” Experience Forty New Rochelle High School seniors got a taste of working IRL – in real life – with internships in fields including accounting, engineering, fashion, law, physical therapy, real estate and more. Run under the guidance of teachers Peter Davis and Robert Thompson, and supported by Social Studies and Business Department Chair Gustavo Barbosa, the immersive senior internship program serves as the ultimate bridge between classroom theory and real-world application. It allows students to step out of the traditional school setting and into dynamic local businesses and organizations. Throughout the spring, the seniors worked in professional settings, accumulating hands-on experience and representing the best of our school community. Students developed workforce skills, focusing on critical soft skills like communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving. "We learned the importance of communication and teamwork. It was very valuable making connections and networking," said Karen Lopez Valencia and Sophia Madrigal, who worked together for the New Rochelle Business Improvement District. "I learned that with patience, everything is not as hard as it seems. The internship gave me great hands-on experience," said Elizabeth Valdovinos. The program concluded with final student presentations and reflections, during which seniors showcased the tangible projects, data analysis, and business strategies they contributed to their host companies. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the local business leaders and mentors who opened their doors to our students,” said Davis. “Thank you for investing your time, sharing your expertise, and helping shape the next generation of professionals.”   High School Theatre Students Nominated for Five Metro Awards New Rochelle High School’s Theatre students received five nominations for the prestigious Helen Hayes Youth Theatre Metro Awards, which celebrate outstanding high school musical theater productions, performers, and creative teams in Westchester and Rockland Counties.  The nominees for the 2026 production of Firebringer were announced on Monday, May 18, and include:  Outstanding Performance in a Featured Female-Identified Role Juliana LoPresti as Chorn Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction Christopher Russo Outstanding Achievement in Graphic Design Ariana Williamson, Caitlin Nation, Emma Wert, Keira DeNigris, Percy Marcantonio, Quintin Young, and Wren Wert Outstanding Achievement by a Student Stage Manager Sophia D’Erasmo GOTTS Student Technician Scholarship Nominee Sebastian Gialerakis “This production was such a special experience for our students, and it is incredibly meaningful to see their work recognized in this way,” said Firebringer director and theatre and film teacher Anthony Stirpe. “We could not be more proud of our students, staff, and creative team.” The sold-out Metro Awards Ceremony will take place on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 7:30 PM at the Purchase College Performing Arts Center. New Playground Opens at George M. Davis Elementary School George M. Davis Elementary School held a ribbon-cutting Thursday for a brand new playground built at no cost to the school district thanks to the Morgan Stanley Foundation and the not-for-profit group, Kaboom. Davis was selected for the playground installation because it was the only elementary school in the district whose playground was not upgraded during the last capital project. After months of planning, more than 150 volunteers from Morgan Stanley, Kaboom, the PTA, school staff and community gathered for the final build. Students from the Community Service and Kids Care Teams supported the volunteers by welcoming them, providing movement breaks, serving breakfast and lunch, and cheering for them. The entire school wrote thank you cards for the volunteers, and fifth graders thanked volunteers at the end of the day by singing two songs and giving them a sign they made with their hand prints around the words "Unity in Community".  The new playground features: A bumpy slide with ridges on the way down to provide sensory input; A four person, wheelchair accessible wobble set; Sensory paths and a balance beam that will be amazing for all, but especially for our PT who can work with kids in a place that supports their socialization and transfer of skills from PT in the PT room to the playground. Picnic tables with toppers to play chess, tic tac toe, and other games. One wheelchair accessible.  A lending library. An "igloo" for climbing and sitting inside.  Musical Instruments and bongo drums Students in the Community Service and Kids Care Clubs helped design the playground, choosing elements to benefit students of all abilities and interests. They were especially focused on students who might have sensory, mobility, or physical therapy needs, as well as those who might not connect to the current play space.  “Students drew their playground designs and shared key elements,” said Assistant Principal Laurie Marinaro. “We looked at trends across the designs. Then, KaBOOM! showed us examples of playground elements to choose from that were relevant to the ideas that emerged.” Poetry Out Loud Celebrates 28 Years of Student Voices On May 18, 75 student poets in grades three through six took the stage before an audience of families, educators, community leaders, and volunteers, sharing original poems that reflected their inner worlds with remarkable honesty, humor, and heart. The 28th Annual Poetry Out Loud celebration was held in the newly renovated Whitney M. Young, Jr. Auditorium at New Rochelle High School.  Founded in 1999 by the Scheinfeld family in memory of their son Jeremy, who loved writing and sharing poetry, Poetry Out Loud is one of the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence's longest-running and most beloved programs. “I’m so proud of you! Some adults could not do what you are doing tonight,” said Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, who served as master of ceremonies. In his remarks, Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds said that the evening offers “an honest and unfettered view of the enormous power of a strong public education.” One of the evening's highlights was a reading by Harmony Hopwood — NRHS senior, Poetry Out Loud alumna, President of the NRHS Poetry Club, and the youngest person ever named Westchester County Youth Poet Laureate. Harmony’s own journey with poetry began through Poetry Out Loud in third grade. Although she was not selected to participate that year, she continued writing and nurturing her love of poetry. Harmony captivated the audience with a reading of her original poem, “The Sum of Us,” inspiring the next generation of young writers. The New Rochelle Fund extends its deepest gratitude to the many educators who bring poetry to life in our schools and help make Poetry Out Loud possible each year: Mary Claire Breslin; Michael Galland and Shoshana Jacobs; Laurie Marinaro and Anna Orientale; Filomena Daniele and Beatrice Lopez; Holly Bruni; Adrienne Quinn, Mariahelena Ruiz, and Taylor Stenroos; Kellie Catullo; and Marissa McIntyre and Rachel Sininsky. The Fund also gratefully acknowledges the Scheinfeld family for their enduring support; Meri Hilton and Nancy Gordon Seif, who have served as co-chairs since the program's inception; and the NRHS Poetry Club and their advisor, Olivia Thompson, whose assistance ensured a warm and memorable experience for poets and their families. A beloved Poetry Out Loud tradition is the publication of a keepsake anthology featuring every student's work, making each participant a published poet. This year, the Fund distributed 230 bound books to participating schools, poets, and families, ensuring these young writers' voices will be treasured for years to come. The evening also featured door prizes, including four tickets to a New York Red Bulls home match and a week of summer camp at the New Rochelle YMCA. In the words of Jodi and Rob Scheinfeld, Poetry Out Loud offers students the chance to witness "the power of their words to move others and make a difference." Science Research Sophomores Take Home Honors New Rochelle High School’s Science Research sophomores excelled at the Somers Science Fair on June 6, bringing home 24 awards, including 11 first-place prizes. Student projects covered topics such as biochemistry, medicine, environmental science, and behavior. New Rochelle’s 46 sophomores competed with 874 students from more than 40 schools across the region.  “Our young scientists absolutely crushed it,” said Jeff Wuebber, program co-teacher. Erica Curran, who runs the program with Wuebber, added, “And a huge overall thank you to all parents, teachers, and administration for your outstanding support over the entire school year. We could not have done it without you!” The following students won awards in first, second, and third place categories:  First Place–Harrison Desimini, Medicine & Health; Chloe Chiu, Bioinformatics; Katherine Kann, Biochemistry; Benji Salama, Behavior; Lilia Hafid, Behavior; Anne DePaolo & Cami Edwards, Behavior; Andrew Babu, Behavior; Alina Rezvi, Behavior; Ellie Rosenbluth, Behavior; Emily Erber, Behavior; and Lia Seelenfreund, Behavior; Second Place–Jesus Barajas, Medicine & Health; Sky Cannistraci, Environmental Science; Fiyin Egieya, Cellular and Molecular Biology; Olivia Schwarcz, Behavior; Ellie Fine, Behavior; Caitlin Bach, Behavior; Evelyn Menkes, Behavior; Third Place–Dylan Lehrman, Medicine & Health; Olivia Solomon, Medicine & Health; Emma Salierno, Medicine & Health; Juliet Rueda, Engineering; Daniel Fryxell, Cellular and Molecular Biology; and Hendrix Rumph, Behavior. The program teachers offered thanks to parent volunteers Phil Paterra and Molly Schultz-Hafid for picking up the posters; Ana Lopez for creating the snack bags for students; and Sarah Desimini, David Rosenbluth, Rachelle Rumph, Leslie Lehrman, Rachel Barbanel-Fried, Kristen Fusco, Ivonne Droese-Solomon, Molly Schultz-Hafid, David Hirschl, and David Rosenbluth for serving as judges. High School Students Get Front-Row Seat to Hydrogeology and Engineering in Action The City School District of New Rochelle Facilities Department recently partnered with industry contractors to give high school students a hands-on look at the real-world applications of hydrogeology and engineering.  The demonstration took place at the high school’s McKenna Field, the site of ongoing construction of the school’s new pool stormwater detention system. Throughout the day, 278 students participated in the immersive experience.  "Connecting students at New Rochelle High School with real-world applications was a valuable opportunity,” said Director of Facilities, Keith Watkins. “These experiences are crucial for helping our students engage with careers in engineering, architecture, and other facilities-related careers." On June 3, engineering firm P.W. Grosser Consulting (PWGC) led active drilling demonstrations to showcase how subsurface data is collected and used to inform major construction designs. After being equipped with eye and ear protection, students watched a live boring (drilling) operation conducted under the supervision of NRHS teachers and staff.  This vital fieldwork supports Passero Associates and Jacobs in developing a massive underground stormwater detention system. The system is engineered to protect the high school’s pool from future environmental damage by providing a large overflow and holding capacity for excess stormwater.  The need for the system became clear after Hurricane Ida in 2021, when a severe groundwater surge forced its way up through the bottom of the pool, causing catastrophic damage and flooding the entire first floor of the high school. The new remediation system will significantly increase underground stormwater storage capacity, keeping the school and athletic facilities safe during future severe weather events.  Third Graders Take on Congressional Art Challenge Ann Marie Manganiello's third grade class at Trinity Elementary just couldn’t wait for high school to participate in the annual nationwide High School Arts Competition sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives. Drawn in by this year’s theme, “Revolutionary 250,” the class embraced the challenge from Rep. George Latimer’s Office and created impressive artwork inspired by American history and innovation.  Students explored a wide array off topics, from local Revolutionary War sites, overlooked figures from the Revolutionary era, and major issues throughout American history - including the Industrial Revolution, Civil Rights, and even forward-looking debates on whether artificial intelligence represents the next great revolution.  As part of their research, some students visited historical sites throughout Westchester and the Bronx for inspiration. Congressman Latimer's office was so impressed by the students' enthusiasm that his staff offered to display selected pieces in their White Plains office and presented the class with a certificate of recognition from Congressman Latimer. “I am incredibly proud of our students and all they have learned,” said Manganiello. “This project provided a meaningful opportunity for students to connect their studies of American history with creativity and artistic expression.” The class is also working to arrange a visit from Congressman Latimer before the end of the school year.  Ward Elementary's First School-Wide Art Show A Success There were cartoon felines, new interpretations of Van Gogh's "Starry Night," dragons, and multi-media abstracts at Ward Elementary School's first-ever art show on June 4. Student artwork using various media and color schemes transformed the school's brick walls into a gallery. The New Rochelle High School Jazz Band entertained guests as they perused the art.  The Art Show was the brainchild of art teacher Amanda Tarantino. Her students raved about the opportunity to display their work.  First grade student Maya N. likes drawing and was excited to have people see her art at the exhibit and support her.  “I love art because I feel like I can just be me and draw what I want,” said Maya N. “I like art class because it helps me learn how to do art better. I really like learning because it’s just a new thing that you get to do.”  Henry W., a third grader, enjoys painting the most. “I wanted to do something a little bit different than everybody else, to show creativity differently. Painting makes me feel good because it’s not all about being the same. Everyone’s different. So you can all express how you’re feeling.”  “I would like to do art in middle school. I would like to join the performing arts program for drawing,” said Rory O., a fourth grader. “Art is kind of like an escape from reality because your brain is hurting from learning all new stuff, and it’s hard to process. Art is that easy-going subject that anybody can be good at, because it’s something unique to you.”  Art teacher Christiane Morejon co-curated the exhibit. Her fifth grade art student Mary S. said, “I’m doing a project, painting a keyboard, and after I finish, I just feel like this is who I am and this is how I express myself. It will serve me throughout life. I know I’m never going to lose art, ever.”  Keysha L., from Morejon’s fifth grade class, was excited about the art show. “It’s a way that you can show everybody your work and how far you've gotten, and you can showcase your talent if you haven’t shown it before. You can look at others’ art and techniques and get ideas on using their techniques and colors.”  Congratulations to all the Ward artists on a spectacular inaugural showcase. The community is looking forward to seeing how these talents continue to develop and grow in the years to come. Two New Rochelle High School Seniors Receive Honors New Rochelle High School seniors Micahia Simpkins and Stone Pride have been named recipients of the Heena Rajdeo Leadership & Excellence Award from Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College. Named for a longtime faculty member who retired after 42 years of service, the award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, community service, and academic excellence while pursuing interests in healthcare and the sciences. The award includes a $500 honorarium and is intended to support and inspire students as they prepare for college and future careers in STEM and healthcare.  "I am incredibly honored to be selected as the inaugural recipient of the Heena Rajdeo Leadership & Excellence Award. This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the values that have guided me throughout high school—leadership, service, and a commitment to helping others,” said Pride. “As I prepare to pursue a career in oncology, I am grateful for the encouragement this award provides and for the opportunity to continue using science and service to make a difference in the lives of others." A luncheon was held on June 5, where the students presented their essays and received their awards. Sights and Sounds from Around the District Albert Leonard Middle School National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony Isaac E. Young Middle School National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony The school district's two middle schools have inducted the 2026 honorees into the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). In all, more than 250 students were honored for embodying the Society's pillars of citizenship, character, scholarship, leadership, and service. The ceremony at Albert Leonard was on June 3, and Isaac E. Young held its ceremony on June 4. Congratulations to all the inductees!   New York State School Music Association Kudos to the New Rochelle High School Jazz band, which attended the New York State School Music Association Majors as a Level V ensemble and scored a Silver Rating on June 2. Well done, musicians and director Scott Byers!   Special Olympics Celebrates Success at Dinner Dance   Alum Returns to District to Raise Awareness New Rochelle High School Alumnus Matt Ricker ('14) visited Webster Elementary School as part of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month in May. The annual observance seeks to raise awareness about communication disorders, the importance of early detection, and the role of hearing in overall wellness. Ricker, a fourth-generation New Rochellean, lost hearing in both ears as a child and uses a cochlear implant to hear. He is an Assistant Director for Student-Alumni Engagement at Iona University. End of Year Fun at Trinity Elementary School What happens when you raise more than $20,000 from your Harlem Wizards WizFit Challenge??? You get to slime your principal, of course! Mr. Hilderbrand was a great sport as buckets and buckets of slime were poured on him, to the students' delight! See more on Instagram. Kindergarten through fifth grade students also had a ball at Trinity's Field Days on June 3. Families participated in outdoor games, including the parachute, potato sack races, bucket relay, and the wet sponge challenge!   PTA Council Installation Dinner Thanks to a quintet of string musicians from New Rochelle High School's Orchestra for making the Parent Teacher Association Council installation dinner extra special! Congratulations to all the PTAC members - it's going to be a great year ahead! Tabletop Cornhole Barnard student Ricky challenged School District Facilities Director Keith Watkins to a game of tabletop cornhole before the Board of Education meeting on June 2. Athletics Girls Track and Field Headed to State Championships The New Rochelle High School Girls Track and Field Team had an outstanding showing at state qualifiers for the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA), including a personal best triple jump of 39’11” for Quinnipiac commit Sophia Ochoa - a number 7 all-time high for Section 1 girls.  Headed to states are:  Alexis Smith 4x100, 4x400, 400H Alivia Smith 4x100, 4x400, 100H Olivia Solomon 800m, 4x400 Sophia Ochoa Triple Jump, 4x400 Ryann Joseph Long Jump, 4x100 Elisa Crisp 4x100, 200m Sofia Magazzu 4x400  The 2026 NYSPHSAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships are this weekend in Webster, New York, near Rochester. Best of luck to all our competing athletes. We are proud of you!  Boys Track and Field Section Champs States-Bound Members of the New Rochelle High School boys track and field team were named Section 1 Champions at the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Section 1 State Track and Field Qualifier. Freshman Zaire Perez won the pole vault with a clearance of 9’6”, senior Max Pirson was the 800-meter winner with a time of 2:01.6, and the 4X100-meter relay team ran a winning time of 44.00. Team members are Omario Reid, Shemar Reid, Elijah Headley, and Ajani Owen.  The boys 4X800 relay team won Class A with a time of 8:01.45. They are Jackson O’Rourke, Anthony Athanase, Adonis Boymandjia, and Max Pirson (pictured above). They’ll compete this weekend at Webster Schroeder High School in the Rochester area.  McCloskey and McCloskey Finish Third and Fourth in State Rowing New Rochelle High School junior Claire McCloskey had an impressive third-place finish in the New York State Rowing Championships and has qualified to compete in the U.S. National Rowing Championships in Florida. Brother Ian, a senior, finished fourth and is also nationals-bound. They row on the Pelham Community Rowing Association team. Ian McCloskey was also selected for the U.S. Rowing U19 Team Training Camp, the top 25 high school rowers in the country. Most of them will be competing as Team USA in Bulgaria in early August. We'll be cheering you on! Check out all the great community events happening now! Click for Community Events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Friday, Jun 12 2026

News from Our Schools: May 28, 2026

News from Our Schools May 28, 2026 Latinx Youth Leadership Conference 2026 I am capable! That was the theme of the 13th Annual Latinx Youth Leadership Conference at New Rochelle High School on May 9, a day dedicated to empowering, educating and celebrating students and community.  The conference brought together student leaders, educators, community members and local organizations to focus on leadership, identity, advocacy and future success. Throughout the day, students participated in workshops exploring topics such as college readiness, leadership, finance, immigrant rights, life after high school, athletics, and civic engagement. New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert spoke to the students about the importance of representation, leadership, and “Latinas in Politics,” while freshman Dylan Gomez shared his thoughts on success.     “Success isn’t about luck. It’s about persistence. It’s about showing up, working hard, and believing in yourself even when things feel difficult. Sometimes, starting with nothing actually means you have the freedom to build everything and to create your own path,” Gomez said. “My family’s journey started my story—but today, I continue it. Today, I stand here proud – proud of my roots, proud of my family, proud of who I am becoming. And most importantly, proud that: I am capable.” The conference also featured a performance by the Columbus Elementary Step Team and lunch sponsored by Monroe University. Conference organizers thanked Monroe University Director of Admissions Marlene Lara for her continued support.    During the event, senior Somaia Kamel was awarded a laptop generously provided by Sergeant Ramon Perez of the U.S. Marine Corps. in recognition of her outstanding academic excellence and achievements. Somaia will be attending Hostos Community College in the Bronx to study dentistry.  The following students are recognized for their participation, leadership, and representation during the conference:     •  Sophia Artiles     •  David Barbosa     •  Aaron Contreras     •  Dylan Gomez Olivares     •  Casandra Gonzalez Diaz     •  Somaia Kamel     •  Kegaogetswe Mokome     •  Andrehi Gissel Murillo Aguilar     •  Yohary Murillo Aguilar     •  Julisa Valle “These students represented New Rochelle High School with professionalism, leadership, and pride throughout the event,” said Gustavo Barbosa, chairperson of the social studies and business department at the high school. “We are incredibly proud of their contributions and commitment to building a stronger and more empowered community.” Thanks go to teachers Gabriela Contreras, Jarohan Garcia, Joao Goncalves, Daniela Leon, Francisco Sandoval, and Alexis Velez for supporting our students.    The conference was conceived by Barbosa, who will be retiring this school year. The student-organizers thanked him for his vision and promised to continue this great event for many years to come.   Students Look for Clues at Crime Scene New Rochelle High School Forensics Teacher Scott Rubins gave his last crime scene final exam on May 19 as he readied for retirement, with more than 200 juniors and seniors searching for clues to solve crimes. Cohorts of 40 students had less than an hour to search for, observe, and collect evidence as forensic examiners, forensic scientists, and crime scene investigators. A New Rochelle Police Department officer served as a first responder at the crime scene and assisted teachers in evaluating the students’ work.  The students were the last of more than 4,000 who have taken Rubins’ exam. Some of them have gone on to careers working in forensics labs, including the Westchester Forensics Lab, the NYPD Crime Lab, and the Harris County Institute of Forensic Science in Texas. Still others have been inspired to enter law enforcement careers after taking the course, working for the New Rochelle Police Department, New York City Police Department, Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the federal Department of Homeland Security, the FBI, the Secret Service, and New York State Children’s Investigative Services.  “It’s hard to believe more than 26 years have passed since I first said, 'I have a small idea.’ What started as a simple concept has evolved into a huge event and my favorite day of the school year,” said Rubins. "I began sharing the vision for this project on the very first day of class, and that momentum builds until the day finally arrives. For my students, this experience has become a true rite of passage, one that resonates so deeply that many alumni return year after year to volunteer their time and support. There is nothing quite like the feeling of watching the students’ hard work come to fruition. I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to provide this opportunity for them over the last two and a half decades.” Each year, 20-25 former students return to the scene of the crime to help set up the crime scenes, restock them between classes, and help this year’s students manage the logistics of their investigations in the woods.  After processing the crime scene, students taking the final exam examine and evaluate their evidence in a laboratory before presenting their cases courtroom-style, with photos and evidence, an explanation of their rationale in processing the scene, their laboratory request documents, and their conclusions. The grade will be up to the judge, aka Rubins.  Trinity Elementary’s Family STEAM Night an Eye-Opening Success Families explored 3D printing, computer programming, electric circuits and more at Trinity Elementary School’s Family STEAM Night for grades three through five on May 14. The event drew more than 150 families in two sessions, one from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the other from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Organized by teachers Ann Marie Manganiello and Terri Agravat, the event featured interactive engineering stations, an estimation station, informative talks, math games and puzzles.  Families built towers using cups and popsicle sticks, explored 3D printing using 3Doodler pens, and created paper circuits using LED light bulbs, coin batteries and conductive tape. Students and their parents also had the opportunity to explore coding with Ozobot robots. At the Estimation Station, families predicted how many items (gram masses, marbles, and sweet gum seed pods) were in each jar. The student with the closest estimation won a Snap Circuits Kit. Volunteers from Healthy Yards of New Rochelle spoke to the students and parents about the importance of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, explaining how planting native plants can help the environment. A parent volunteer and engineer, Omer Uzun, and several high school student volunteers hosted one of the stations. The station included a variety of math puzzles and games such as: Tiling, Konigsberg (aka Graph Theory), Color Dominoes, Number Patterns, 3D Shapes, 3D Puzzles, and Strategy Games. Business Honor Society Induction Thirty-six students were inducted into the Business and Marketing Honor Society at New Rochelle High School, having demonstrated outstanding achievement in their business courses. "The Business Department is incredibly proud of our new inductees and also our graduating seniors," said Business teacher Johana Sanchez. "Each of these students set an amazing example for their peers as well as our school community." Special guests at the ceremony included keynote speaker John DeMelis, Dean of the Iona University LaPenta School of Business, and Dr. Alison Munsch, associate professor at Iona. "We are extremely grateful for their willingness to participate in this event and their continued support of our students," said Social Studies and Business Department Chairperson Gustavo Barbosa.  Business and Marketing Honor Society advisors for the 2025-26 academic year are Sanchez and Robert Thompson. The following students were inducted into the Honor Society: Ivan Alcantar, Adrian Almanzar, Alexa Ayala, Giovanni Barbieri, Derek Boccardi, Zachary Campbell, Sarai Cardona, Noelle Chollet Robert Clark, Joshua Cohen, Julian Crane, John DeGiacomo, Angelo DiFatta, Paul Gallagher, Tyler Greenberg, Benjamin Hirshchhorn, Genevieve Kirby, Abilany Lugo, Noam Maliniak, Michael Moore, Joseph Morello, Jose Manuel Nahuatlato Texis, Jackson O'Rourke, Ava Parker, Noah Pierre, Gabriella Renda, Tino Riviello, Yanea Rivera, Asyr Robinson, Sienna Rubin, Jason Salera, Aidan Shaw, Camila Sulbaran, Zoey Tung, Alexa Villanueva, and Luke Zaccagnino. The following seniors will graduate as members of the Honor Society: Alicia Acevedo, Adrian Alvarez Diaz, Alex Boggi, Fynn Bowman, Zachary Campbell*** (newly inducted), Justin Craig, Nate Hooper, Michael Jones, Karen Lopez Valencia, Betsy Mathew, Mathew Moncada, Nicholas Rivera, Gus Robinson, Christopher Ruiz Vasquez, Louis Salierno, Evelyn Sanchez, Omar Sanchez-Pacheco, Elizabeth Valdovinos Garcia, Santiago Vargas, Vanessa Vera, Julianna Vigna, and Francisco Yanez. Students Take Art Outdoors with En Plein Air Painting The grounds of New Rochelle High School were transformed into an outdoor art studio on May 20 in a scene reminiscent of Impressionist-era Paris. Art students took the day off from classes to paint outside around the lake in front of the Gothic-style high school building.  Started by art teachers Alexi Rutsch Brock, Scott Seaboldt, and Moira McCaul more than 25 years ago, En Plein Air Day is a beloved annual tradition. The practice of painting en plein air, or outdoors, began with the Impressionists whose work captured the effects of light on the landscape. “It's wonderful to watch the kids painting -- a great reminder that beauty and art still matter,” said Brock. Students from Brien McMahon High School in Norwalk, Conn., joined the event with their teachers Joselyn Santos, Katelyn Westervelt, and Emily Van Winkle. Santos was a student teacher at New Rochelle High School in 2008. “We always took the students outside to draw, and decided to make it a “trip” so they could have an experience that was longer than a class period,” Brock said. “We change the assignment and media each year so that students can have four different experiences during their high school years.”  This year’s assignment focused on local and/or imagined color with watercolors and colored pencils. New Rochelle art students were joined by more than a dozen alumni who came back from college to visit and work alongside the students.  “I have had the pleasure of participating in this event for the past three years of my high school career and would not want it any other way- this is something unique and beyond special to New Rochelle High School,” said Danica Batista. Students worked from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a break at midday to share their work. Brock said it was a hot day but students sat under trees and the breeze in the shade made it bearable. Work from seven classes is now on display and there will be a reception for the public and families Monday June 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.   Student Spotlight: E“STEAM”ed Awardees Share What They Learned and What’s Next Four budding scientists at Isaac E. Young Middle School transformed curiosity into discovery with research projects on dental health, environmental protection, DNA extraction and optics. The students were recognized for their achievement at the middle school’s “IEYMS Ignites Innovation: STEAMfest” event last month. We caught up with the award recipients of STEAMfest’s Student Project Exhibit to learn more about their research, next steps and future aspirations as they continue to pursue their interests.   First place honors went to eighth grader Rawan A. for her project titled: Bite Into Data: How Can Artificial Intelligence Protect Your Teeth? An aspiring dentist and health innovator, she developed an App called Habitly to help users understand how daily choices affect dental health.  “Ever since STEAMfest, I’ve continued developing and expanding on the project. I’m hoping to grow it further as a passion project that can positively impact our community through healthcare education and awareness,” she said. Second place went to sixth grader Kulanya Dickwelle G. for her research titled: Hypoxia in Coastal Areas; Affected by Topography in Long Island Sound. She researched hypoxia, or low oxygen in bottom waters, at two local coastal parks. She hopes to continue her research for next year’s STEAMfest, and someday would like to become a bioengineer who devises solutions to environmental problems. Third place went to Affan P., who presented a project titled Unlocking the Secret of Life Through DNA Extraction, which compared DNA extraction in different foods. As he enters high school next year, he looks forward to continuing to participate in a variety of experiences, including, but not limited to, Science Research and the PAVE Program, with future aspirations of entering the medical or legal fields.  Honorable Mention went to seventh grade student, Safa F. for her project, which focused on creating and testing a successful pin-hold camera to study and demonstrate fundamental optics. She was interested in exploring the best way to build a camera without a lens. She enjoyed the experience, as well as presenting at STEAMfest and looks forward to participating again next year.   “Congratulations to these amazing students for their innovation and commitment to sharing their discoveries with the school community,” said Julie Verville, middle school science chairperson. “We expect to see more great accomplishments from these learners in the years to come.”   Students Lobby Lawmakers Two New Rochelle High School students got real life experience in the democratic process when they travelled recently to Albany to lobby state legislators on the importance of substance use prevention. Erin Palermo and Carmen Ayala, co-presidents of the high school’s SADD, Students Against Destructive Decisions Club, and members of the Westchester Youth Leadership Task Force, met with several state legislators as part of National Prevention Awareness week.  “Going to Albany was an amazing experience where I had the opportunity not only to share my positive experiences with SADD and Student Assistance Services, but also to hear impactful stories and perspectives of my peers,” said Palermo. “Seeing the positive impact these prevention programs have on students opened my eyes to just how important prevention work is to NRHS.”  Ayala said she especially appreciated the opportunity to represent New Rochelle High School.   “It was inspiring to see that student voices are valued and can shape important conversations about supporting young people,” she said. “Prevention is the key to success because it gives students the knowledge, resources, and confidence to make positive choices before problems begin, helping to create healthier and stronger school communities.” Student Assistance Counselor Pina Palmisano, who traveled with Palermo and Ayala, praised the students for their lobbying prowess.  “Erin and Carmen were prepared, poised, articulate, sincere, and enthusiastic about the importance of substance use prevention,” she said. “They were also terrific advocates.” The students provided examples of prevention activities conducted at New Rochelle High School as well as their involvement in county-wide prevention activities, and the impact of their work. They also met in the Capitol with Dr. Chinazo Cunningham, commissioner of the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports, and members of her staff along with a representative from the Governor's office. Science Research Wins Champions of Change Award The Science Research Program at New Rochelle High School was recognized as a “Champions of Change” program by the New York State School Boards Association on May 19 for its transformative impact on students. The award celebrates school district and BOCES programs that bring positive, meaningful change to students, communities and school districts in New York. The recognition is unsolicited, with no application or competition.  “It’s important to recognize that the NYSSBA recognizes your programming and your work not based on anything we’ve submitted, but based on the merits of the work itself -- based on how much people are talking about what we do here,” said Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. “That is a tremendous feat and I want you to be very proud of that.” NYSSBA’s member relations team combs through media articles that highlight educational programs in New York State, and team members visit more than 300 school districts each year to talk about successes and challenges. NYSSBA’s awards committee then receives nominations from member relations and the committee selects programs to be recognized.  On behalf of the NYSSBA President Christine Schnars and Executive Director Robert Schneider, and Rosemary Pitruzzella (Rockland BOCES Director) and myself, we’re excited to present a Champions of Change award to the New Rochelle City School District for your Science Research Program,” said Area 10 Director Sheryl Brady. “I’m very aware of all the work that’s involved, all the hard work that your students take part in, the teachers’ hard work, the mentor work. It’s always very impressive to see the results.” Two Regeneron finalists - Carlos Del Aguila and Scarlett Hartzman - hung the banner in Jeffrey Wuebber’s and Erica Curran's Science classroom. Wuebber and Curran co-run the Science Research Program. Student Becomes Teacher for a Day Ward Elementary School art teacher Amanda Tarantino knows talent when she sees it. That’s why Tarantino asked New Rochelle High School sophomore Christian Lyerly-Alston to step in as guest art teacher for a day. Lyerly-Alston taught five classes on May 14, showing students in grades kindergarten through second how to create colorful images of one of their favorite things: donuts.  “I’m trying to put myself back in their shoes,” said Lyerly-Alston. “I would tell my classmates that teaching at the elementary school is a good experience. It’s been fun. I like seeing everyone doing their own thing.” First grader Samantha enjoyed the lesson.  “I’m thinking about drawing donuts and cakes. I’m making a cake, and Mrs. T is going to love it,” she said. “I like using colors like the ones in the rainbow. It’s fun to have a different teacher for the day.” The drawings became increasingly detailed as Lyerly-Alston moved from kindergarten to second grade classes. Kindergarteners did a basic drawing and colored it. First graders added more detail to the drawing with a background and setting, and the second graders added even more detail with color values and shading. William B. Ward Teacher Receives Lifetime Achievement Award Ward Elementary School teacher Judith Henry received a prestigious achievement award from the Westchester Lower Hudson Council for Social Studies, capping more than 30 years in education. Henry, who has been a teacher at Ward Elementary for 25 years, will retire this year, having influenced the lives of countless students. This award recognizes a person for years of dedicated service to social studies education, both in the classroom and through participation in organizations that support and enrich social studies teaching. New Rochelle Ensembles Shine at NYSSMA Seven New Rochelle instrumental ensembles took home prizes for their performances at the New York State School Music Association Majors Festival at Mamaroneck High School. The event, which took place May 18 through May 20, gives students the opportunity to perform for a panel of state-trained judges and receive an official NYSSMA assessment score for their performance. Both the New Rochelle High School Wind Symphony and the school’s Symphonic Orchestra received the prestigious Gold with Distinction rating. Both ensembles earned the rating on a level VI difficulty program, the most challenging in the NYSSMA repertoire. It was the third year in a row that the Wind Symphony earned top marks. “Performing Level VI music, the highest and most advanced classification in NYSSMA, requires exceptional musical skill, precision, artistry, and dedication,” said K-12 Director of Performing and Visual Arts Education Matthew Lucero. “Earning Gold with Distinction at this level is an extraordinary achievement and reflects the dedication of the students, directors, teachers, and families who support music education in New Rochelle.”  Other notable performances were: New Rochelle High School Concert Band: Level III, Silver Albert Leonard Middle School 8th Grade Orchestra: Level III, Silver Albert Leonard Middle School 8th Grade Band: Level III, Silver Albert Leonard Middle School Select Chorus: Level I, Silver Isaac E. Young Middle School 7th Grade Orchestra: Level III, Bronze The New Rochelle High School Jazz Band will be attending NYSSMA Majors on June 2nd. Sights and Sounds from Around the District Our Children, Our Artists Isaac E. Young Middle School eighth grader Mia M. shares her artwork with Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds at the Our Children, Our Artists exhibit at the Lumen Gallery at New Rochelle Public Library. Students throughout the district displayed their artwork at the exhibit from April 30-May 21. Mamma Mia! Webster Spring Concert - My My! Webster students, under the direction of Conductor Heidi Jaye, put on a spectacular spring concert on May 12. The fourth and fifth grade Webster singers and the fifth grade chorus performed, as well as the band and orchestra. Staff and teachers dressed in costumes joined the fun for the grand finale as the fifth grade chorus sang a medley of Abba songs. They danced in the aisles under a disco ball to the delight of the audience.   Athletic Director Donaldson Creates Digital Athletic Hall of Fame The New Rochelle Athletic Department has a longstanding history and rich tradition that dates back over a century. Student-athletes have gone on to play at the professional and college levels. Each October, the Athletics Department celebrates new inductees into our Hall of Fame. You can view the digital version at https://newrochelle.touchstonesites.com/home. Athletics Softball Senior Day The NRHS varsity softball team celebrated Senior Day on May 14, playing Fox Lane at home. Congratulations to senior Abigail Woodruff, the only soon-to-be graduate on the team this year! Abigail has been a leader on the team and will attend Brown University in the fall. A special thank you to Coach Christiana Galella and Coach Yvonne Hartridge for organizing a thoughtful Senior Day.   Pioneers Beat White Plains and Mt. Vernon to End the Season The New Rochelle High School Pioneers beat White Plains 20-16. Elvin Jimenez-Ochoa and Jerome Cofield each scored 6 points. The team celebrated its last basketball game of the season and Senior night on 21. The Pioneers' last game of the season was a nail biter against Mt Vernon. The final score was 32-28. Congrats to all the athletes!    Varsity Golf The NRHS varsity golf team was edged out in its match against Hastings, with a final score of 248-244. Check out all the great community events happening now! Click Here for Community Events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, May 28 2026

News from Our Schools: May 15, 2026

News from Our Schools May 15, 2026 Make Your Voice Heard: Vote May 19 on School and Library Budget and Trustee Election Day On Tuesday, May 19, New Rochelle voters will consider the proposed school district budget and elect two Board of Education trustees. The proposal focuses on long-term sustainability while navigating a challenging financial landscape. Total Proposed Budget: $370,369,165 Spending Increase: 3.03% ($10.9M) Tax Levy Increase: 1.85% (Stays within the state tax cap) Maintaining all current District programs next school year would create a $22.5 million gap caused by rising costs (transportation, health insurance, and charter school impacts) and a $2.1 million overall decrease in state aid. This has left the district with difficult, but necessary decisions.  The Board of Education has heard the community’s concerns regarding the reduction of the Elementary Band and Orchestra Programs and has directed the District Administration to reallocate $771,305.60 from funds budgeted for charter school expenditures. Those funds will be used to restore the Elementary Band and Orchestra Programs for the upcoming year. To preserve most of our hallmark programs and special education options, the budget reduces approximately 80 staff positions. Many are vacant or will be vacated due to retirements and resignations. However, there will be some job losses. By rebalancing class sizes within our established optimal ranges and prioritizing vacancies for these reductions, the District aims to minimize the impact on current staff while maintaining a high-quality New Rochelle education. The budget proposes to continue funding programs that define our District, including: Arts & Athletics: PAVE, Kaleidoscope, and all sports levels. Innovation: Science Research, Robotics, Magnet programs, and CTE Pathways. Student Wellness: K-12 Social-emotional supports and programs. Academic Excellence: AP courses, Speech & Debate, and the Seals of Biliteracy and Civic Readiness. There is also a $35 million Capital Projects proposition to be considered. The funding is for critical safety and maintenance, including: Boiler and HVAC replacements across elementary and middle schools. District-wide drainage and flood mitigation. NRHS pool renovation and bleacher replacement. Voters will also be asked to elect two members for five-year terms on the Board of Education and one Library Trustee for the New Rochelle Public Library. The Library is also putting a $55 million Capital Bond proposition before voters for library renovations.  If the budget is not approved on May 19, the Board may resubmit the same or a revised proposal for a second vote. If it still fails to pass, the district must adopt a contingency budget, which would freeze spending at current-year levels and necessitate further reductions. Scan the QR code for more detailed information and polling locations. Your Vote Matters: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Junior Varsity Flag Football Reigns in Triumphant and Historical Inaugural Season Undefeated! The future is looking bright for the New Rochelle High School flag football program! The Girls Junior Varsity team, which took the field for the first time this year, had an outstanding season. They defeated Bronxville 26–7 in their final game of the season on Friday, May 8, finishing with an impressive overall record of 12-0-1. "Being on the JV flag football team was such an amazing experience for me. Our two coaches made the season even better with their encouragement, guidance, and always positive energy,” said 10th grader Rosandry Gil. “I’ll always appreciate the memories, friendships, and leadership skills I gained from being part of this team. I loved being a part of this first-ever Girls JV Flag Football Team, which is undefeated! I will cherish these memories forever." "This year was a new experience for me as I was asked to lead a group of 24 young ladies for the first time in my 18-year coaching career,” said Head Coach Nate Adams. “We knew this year would be a historical year for a variety of reasons, one being the first JV Girls Flag Team in NRHS history. I would have never thought that an undefeated season would be the story told about our team. I am extremely proud of our on-the-field success, but more proud of the bonds and history we created as One New Rochelle Team." Coach Geoff McDermott agreed. "What a year! I truly enjoyed every moment with this dynamic group of young ladies. We knew early in the season that this would be a very special year. To be the inaugural JV Flag Team and receive the return on investment we did from these 24 players was all that I could ask for. This was bigger than flag football; it was about providing opportunity for some young ladies that might not have found a sports community otherwise." “This is a tremendous milestone for both the girls’ flag football program and the City School District of New Rochelle,” said District Athletic Director Joe Donaldson. “Coaches Nate Adams and Geoff McDermott deserve a special thank you for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence throughout the season.” Congratulations to the entire team and coaches. We look forward to seeing you back on the field next season!  High School Artist to Exhibit at Festival New Rochelle High School junior Cheyenne Stephens has been selected to exhibit her work at the 25th Annual Garner Arts Festival in Haverstraw this weekend. The festival will highlight American artists from the Revolution to the post-war era and beyond, to commemorate this historic anniversary year.  Cheyenne’s large-scale, five-panel artwork was created in response to the theme “America 250 Exhibition” in honor of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It features acrylic paints, collaged current political articles, linoleum block prints incorporating Kamala Harris, and a gold-framed copy of the Declaration of Independence.  "The theme of the 250th anniversary really spoke to me as I am always looking for a place to share my voice and interest in politics,” said Cheyenne. “Most don't expect the younger generation to be involved or even aware of the current state of our world, so I make sure to alter that rhetoric with every piece I make.”  PAVE Visual Arts teacher Alexi Brock said she was proud to invite Cheyenne to this festival.  “She had previously made the left panel of her piece, and I thought it fit the theme well. Cheyenne decided to make the other four parts to further explore current political issues … This is a very powerful work." The festival, to be held in the hamlet of Garnerville from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, will feature works by five extraordinary female artists: Emily Bedard, Ennis Carter, Kris Campbell, Theresa Gooby, and Rhea Marmentini. Ping Pong: The Hot New Trend at Jefferson Elementary Pickleball may be sweeping the country, but at Jefferson Elementary School, ping pong is all the rage. Thanks to New Rochelle High School students Santiago Contreras Velona, a junior, and Zully Contreras Velona, a freshman, Jefferson Elementary has a new after-school activity: the Ping Pong Club. The club combines physical activity, mentorship, and collaboration between elementary and high school students. With one-on-one instruction from high school volunteers, third and fourth graders at Jefferson are learning the basics of table tennis, including serving, returning, and rallying, as well as larger lessons in teamwork, perseverance, and confidence.  “It is rewarding to see students get better as the time goes,” said high school student Elissa Cuevas. But for the volunteers, the club is not just about teaching a sport, but about modeling positive behaviors.  Brandon Pratts, a sophomore, reminded students of the importance of respect during play, telling them, “In order to play, you have to be kind to each other.” Zully said she was impressed with the determination shown by the younger students.  “I like that the students don’t give up,” she said. “Just because they hit the ball out once, they never gave up,” she said. Jefferson students clearly appreciate the program.  Alan M., a fourth grade student, said, “The high school students were encouraging us.”  Another participant, Mia V., a third grader, said, “I enjoyed myself. We learned to serve and return.” Students seemed to enjoy being mentored by their older peers.  “The high school students were inspiring and taught us different ways to serve and return. I am excited for next time,” said Jane R., a fourth grader. Fellow fourth grader Addam D. echoed the enthusiasm, explaining how active the sessions were: “I had a lot of fun. I didn’t realize that I would sweat so much and move around as much.” The Ping Pong Club is in keeping with the district’s commitment to student leadership, mentorship, and meaningful after‑school programming. By bringing schools together and allowing students to learn from one another, the program has created a space where learning goes beyond the classroom—and where both younger and older students grow together. “It has been incredibly meaningful to see Jefferson alumni spearhead this initiative and stay connected to their elementary school,” said English Language teacher Lucia Brea, who helped support the program. “Their willingness to give back through volunteering is inspiring our younger students and strengthening the Jefferson community in such a positive way.”   Young Artists Exhibit Work at Katonah Museum Many artists wait a lifetime to see their work exhibited in a museum. But 10 New Rochelle High School students are already seeing their artwork displayed at the Katonah Museum of Art as part of its annual Young Artists show. Aurora Baeza, Penelope Copeland, Oscar DeJesus, Mauro Manzo, Kaeden O’Meara, Aria Rueda, Sophia Salomon, Journey Thomas, Javier Tlaczani, and Kamryn Tung were among those selected from 40 high schools across the region. The exhibit, which runs from May 3 to May 24, brings together a wide spectrum of media, including painting, sculpture, video, and fashion design, offering a vivid glimpse into the next generation of artists. Now in its 43rd year, Young Artists invites students to take on real-world museum roles, including curator, exhibition designer, installer, graphic designer, and exhibiting artist. In collaboration with museum professionals, participants shape every aspect of the show, culminating in an exhibition of nearly 400 works from schools across Fairfield, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties. “I feel very accomplished having one of my works exhibited in a museum completely dedicated to art,” said Manzo, who also participated in the installation workshop. “But what feels the most fulfilling is being able to present a piece that I see as my best in a professional space.”  Rueda, who created a ceramic tea set for the show, said the most challenging aspect was that the work deviated from her usual subject matter. But she said she was pleased that people liked it and was honored to have been chosen for the exhibit. “It is nice to be spotlighted sometimes, and I am proud of the piece I submitted,” Rueda said. Copeland, who had her art displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City when she was in elementary school, said she most enjoyed “being able to overhear people notice and compliment my work” at the show’s opening. Copeland, a senior, said she plans to spend a gap year building her portfolio and then apply to art schools in New York City. Tung said the most challenging aspect of the experience was “preparing this work to the best of my abilities (on a deadline) while also continuing to enjoy the process.” Tung, who plans to attend Marist University for Fashion Merchandising, said she would like to continue to make art for her own enjoyment. General admission to the show continues through Sunday, May 24. Museum hours: Wednesday through Friday, Sunday, 12:00 – 5:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Students Keep Holocaust Stories Alive Two New Rochelle High School students are ensuring that Holocaust survivors’ stories are not forgotten by transforming their testimonies into art as part of the Living History Project of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center of Westchester. Juniors Sophia Coverdale and Devin Ferrucci were among eight students in Westchester who participated in the four-month project, which pairs students with the child or grandchild of a Holocaust survivor. Students first document the survivor’s story and then create an artistic representation that can be shared digitally. "I did this project because it gave me the opportunity to learn about all the things we don’t get to learn about in textbooks,” said Sophia, who was paired with Michael Gyory, whose parents, Tomas Gyory and Zsuzsanna Schavarcz, survived the Holocaust. “It’s so important to learn as much information as possible about tragic events such as the Holocaust in order to ensure history doesn’t repeat itself." For Devin, the project was a way to further explore her Jewish heritage. She was paired with Andy Laub, whose grandfather, Felix Lasky, was also a Holocaust survivor. "I did this project because I am very involved with my Jewish community, and I always want to learn more about my heritage. Also, it’s important because the Holocaust isn’t just the past, it’s a reminder of why we must stand up for human rights today," she said. Students presented their findings and artwork before an audience of about 40 guests of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center in Harrison on April 22. Sophia told the story of Tomas Gyory, who survived a labor camp in Yugoslavia and was able to escape in early 1945 and hid until the end of the war. In 1946, he moved to the United States, where he began a new life in Katonah, NY. She created a digital piece of art representing the story, which she presented to Tomas Gyory's son, Michael.  Devin told the story of Felix Lasky, who was taken from his home in eastern Poland and survived both the Buchenwald and Theresienstadt concentration camps until liberation by the Soviets in early 1945. She created a sculpture in the shape of a ballot box, representing Lasky's story that was given to his grandson, Andy Laub.  High school social studies teacher Francisco Sandoval introduced Sophia and Devin to the project during class earlier this year and mentored them throughout the project. "I am incredibly proud of both Sophia and Devin and all the dedication they put into this project. Both projects were very unique and well presented,” he said. “By continuing to tell the story of the Holocaust through the lens of individuals, we have been given a personal perspective to a horrific historical event.”  Huguenot Academy Publishes Book Amazing writers are in bloom at Huguenot Academy. “Writers in Bloom,” Huguenot Academy’s first published book, showcases more than student writing – it captures a school community’s imagination, creativity, courage, and confidence one page at a time. The project was supported by the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence. Freshmen in the Reading and Writing Foundations class and seniors in the Creative Writing class began their author journeys by answering questions about themselves. “They started off responding to questions and engaging in discussions about who they are,” said Dr. Merica Neufville, academy director. “Then they created thinking maps that displayed what matters most. The maps evolved into literary pieces we could not help but to preserve.”  Asked what they had learned from the experience, the new authors talked about gaining insights into themselves. “School isn’t just about grades — it’s about learning how strong, resilient, and capable you can become, even on the days you want to give up,” said Sika Gozan. Similarly, Nyurka K. Mayol said, “There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, there are no limits to winning.” Arianna Higgins drove home the message of empowerment, saying, ”The only limits are those you set in your own mind. Strive not only to be a success, but rather, to be a value.” Huguenot Academy’s blooming writers will also visit the Botanical Gardens later this month to enjoy other things in bloom this season, said Dr. Neufville. Click Here to order your own copy of the book. New Rochelle High School Celebrates 30 years of National Poetry Month In celebration of the 30th anniversary of National Poetry Month, the New Rochelle High School English Department invited both students and staff to experience poetry as readers, writers, and thinkers.  The series of events was made possible with the support of Westchester Poet Laureate Phylisha Villanueva, and the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence. On April 15, Villanueva led a generative poetry session with students in Creative Writing and Introduction to College English classes. Through engaging prompts and strategies, students explored their voices and crafted original pieces. On April 20, she led “Poetry to Feed the Souls of Teachers,” a workshop that provided faculty with time to write, reflect, and gather poetry writing strategies to bring into their classrooms. On April 22, English teacher Olivia Thompson hosted, Spring Out Loud, an evening dedicated to poetry and artistic expression. The program featured student readings of original poems, notable works, a featured performance by Villanueva, and a vibrant display of student artwork. Spring Out Loud was a celebration of voice, creativity, and community. It affirmed the importance of creating spaces where students and teachers alike can express themselves, be heard, and be inspired. We extend our gratitude to the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence, our student artists, the English and Art Departments, and all staff and community members who helped make this celebration possible. A special thank you to Olivia Thompson for organizing Spring Out Loud and to Lexi Brock from the Art Department for her support in bringing the event to life. To close out Poetry Month, the English Department hosted Poem in Your Pocket Day on April 30, where students and English teachers greeted students and staff with poems as they entered the building. This month-long celebration of poetry reminded the high school community of the power of words and how they inspire.  New Rochelle Students Excel at ACT-SO Six New Rochelle High School students took home medals from the NAACP’s ACT-SO Competition, with three earning a spot at the nationals in Chicago, Ill., this July. ACT-SO, the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics, gives high school students of African descent the opportunity to demonstrate academic, scientific and artistic achievement. New Rochelle’s winners were: Breana Sinkfield- Gold Medalist, 2nd year in a row, Science Medicine  Kelechi Njoku Gold Medalist- Physics  Isaac Evans Gold Medalist- Written Poetry Storm Pride- Silver Medalist  Tahulah Dorlette- Silver Medalist  Stone Pride - Bronze Local Author Visits Trinity Second Graders to Teach Kindness Artie the Kind Seal, a lovable book character, made a splash at Trinity Elementary School when he visited second graders with his creator, Adam J. Castiglia. Castiglia is a retired New Rochelle Police Department lieutenant who has gone on to become a children’s book author. His first book, “Artie the Kind Seal: A Journey of Good Deeds,” shares important lessons about kindness, honesty, and making positive choices. On May 7, Adam visited Trinity Elementary School, where his wife Melody Castiglia teaches second grade, to read his book aloud to all of the second grade classes. The children were fully engaged as they listened to stories about good deeds, all set in an ocean adventure. One of the highlights of the visit was meeting Artie the Seal mascot, who brought the story to life for the students. The children enjoyed taking pictures with Artie and interacting with the character they had just learned about.  Trinity PTA, led by Brooke Mueller, purchased a copy of the book for every second grade student. Students walked away saying things like, “Wow, this is such a great surprise!” and one student excitedly shared that she could not wait to read the book to her sister at home. New Rochelle High School Honors 21 Student-Athletes Heading to College Sports Includes State Champs and All-Americans New Rochelle High School held a signing ceremony on May 1, honoring 21 seniors who will be taking their athletic skills to college teams next year. The students, who have committed to play their sport at Division I, II, or III levels, will participate in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, rowing, rugby, soccer, tennis, and track and field at such colleges as American University, Brown University, Quinnipiac University, and SUNY Plattsburgh. Wearing their chosen school’s gear, the students gathered in the NRHS gymnasium to sign their commitment letters, pose for photos with family, teammates, and coaches, and celebrate their achievements.  Graduating senior Stella Ziogas is receiving a full scholarship to Siena University in Loudonville, NY. Ziogas scored 1,000 points in her New Rochelle basketball career and was named a McDonald’s All-American nominee. Alexander Suhanitski, who won the New York State 2025 Singles Tennis Championship, is receiving a partial scholarship to the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. Samuel Cave set a new NRHS record by swimming the 50-yard Freestyle in 21.12 seconds. He was awarded a partial scholarship to swim at American University in Washington, D.C.  Geronimo “Jero” Velasquez was the first soccer player in New Rochelle history to win Section 1 Player of the Year and only the third in the school’s history to be named an All-American.  Sophia Ochoa was ranked third All-Time in Westchester County Track and Field, with a jump of 39 feet, two inches.  “Our coaches and teachers could not be prouder of our graduating student-athletes. They have worked hard in the classroom and on the field to excel,” said City School District of New Rochelle Athletic Director Joe Donaldson. “We wish them continued success as they take the next step in their athletic and academic careers, and we look forward to watching them flourish.”  “We have always emphasized the ‘student’ in student-athlete,” said NRHS Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles. “These young men and women have incredible athletic talent, but also leave us with the knowledge and skills that will help them succeed along their journey and reach their fullest potential.”  Advocacy Comes in Many Forms As activists turn to memes and videos to call for change, New Rochelle High School students are discovering the power of a more traditional advocacy tool: the open letter. In March, Lakia Evans Robinson and Jolene Russo’s AP Language and Composition students participated in the New York Times Open Letter Contest. Students then hosted an “Open Letter Fair” on April 17, to celebrate their writing process, highlighting how they made rhetorical choices to empower their voices from initial draft to revision and reflection.   At the fair, students presented their letters to teachers, administrators and students in grades nine through 12. The letters explored social issues that were important to their writers such as reproductive rights, immigration reform, climate change, social class inequities and youth sports burnout.  In crafting their letters, students identified the appropriate audience for their concerns and applied persuasive strategies learned in class. This activity allowed students to go beyond their curriculum and develop an understanding of the power of written advocacy. This was the second year AP Language and Composition students participated in the contest. Last year, five New Rochelle student submissions were acknowledged. The highest honor went to Breana Sinkfied, now a senior, who was named a Runner-Up (top 23 of over 10,000 entries). You can find last year’s contest winners here and Breana’s entry here. The 2026 contest winners will be announced in late June.  Sights and Sounds from Around the District Seelenfreund Awarded Scholarship Congratulations to graduating senior and Valedictorian Cory Seelenfreund on being named a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship Program awardee! Seelenfreund plans to study Applied Mathematics and Music at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology this fall. Erber at International Business Competition Emily Erber was the first student to represent New Rochelle High School at the Distributive Educational Clubs of America competition, held this year in Atlanta, Ga. She competed in the Finance category against students from around the globe. Trinity Celebrates International Night   Business Administrator Myke Earns Tenure Congratulations to City School District of New Rochelle Business Administrator Joy Myke for earning tenure. Myke, who has 16 years of experience in school district budgeting and finance, was recognized at the May 6 Board of Education meeting, where she was commended for her efforts to refine the school district's budgeting and accounting practices. Myke joined the City School District of New Rochelle Business Office in 2023. Adegbola Wins Leadership Award Congratulations to NRHS English Department Chair Lydia Adegbola on receiving the Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award at the Empire State Supervisors and Administrators Association’s Annual Gala Celebration of School Leadership on April 17, in Pearl River, New York. The award honors a commitment to ensuring access, fairness, and belonging for every learner. It celebrates leaders who champion courageous advocacy and systemic action to remove barriers and create inclusive, affirming learning environments. Boys & Girls Club Honors Watkins The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle honored City School District of New Rochelle Director of Facilities Keith Watkins for Service to Youth at its annual gala on May 5. Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds introduced Watkins, praising him for embracing “the small details representing the human side of education” over his 35 years in education. “His real gift is leadership,” Reynolds said. “He doesn’t just manage facilities. He builds high-performing teams rooted in accountability.” Watkins said, “When we truly focus on our students, everything else becomes clearer… It’s all about relationships. I could not be more honored to have these relationships.” Congratulations, Keith! Photo: Dr. Reynolds, Mr. Watkins, with Becky Mazzanobile and Will Iannuzzi from the B&GCNR.   Thank You, New Rochelle Football Club! New Rochelle High School Athletics is grateful for the partnership and generosity of the New Rochelle Football Club and Social Studies Chair Gustavo Barbosa for donating a new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at the high school. Thanks also go to the City School District of New Rochelle Facilities Department for installing the life-saving device. It is located near the House 4 bridge. The AED connects directly to New Rochelle Police and Fire Departments.   Free State Parks Passes for Fourth Graders The Office of New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) accepts the National Park Service (NPS) “Every Kid Outdoors” fourth grade pass for free vehicle entry into New York State Parks. When a fourth-grade student presents a valid pass and is present in the vehicle, families receive complimentary access to participating parks. The pass is also accepted at most State Historic Sites, covering house tour fees for the student and up to three accompanying adults. Fourth-grade students can obtain and print their free pass at https://www.everykidoutdoors.gov/index.htm.  Athletics Modified Softball New Rochelle 9, Mamaroneck 5 New Rochelle 4, White Plains 11 New Rochelle 8, Scarsdale 8 Varsity Softball New Rochelle 3, John Jay EF 16 New Rochelle 17, Yonkers Montessori Academy 2 New Rochelle 0, Ketcham 7 Varsity Baseball Congratulations to senior Sam Cave, who received a $500 Eric Tutera Sports Leadership Award. It was presented on senior day, where Sam was honored, along with Gabriel Almonte, Justin Maffucci, Angelo Deleonardis, Adrian Alvarez-Diaz, JD Kurtin, and Alejandro Rondon. Varsity Baseball Scores New Rochelle 2, Ketcham 7 New Rochelle 5, Scarsdale 3 New Rochelle 7, Mount Vernon 0 Junior Varsity Baseball New Rochelle 5, Stepinac 4 Junior Varsity Flag Football - UNDEFEATED! New Rochelle 6, Mamaroneck 6 New Rochelle 22, North Rockland 6 New Rochelle 12, Horace Greeley 6 New Rochelle 19, Scarsdale 13 New Rochelle 26, Bronxville 7 Varsity Flag Football New Rochelle 20, Mount Vernon 0 New Rochelle 47, Ossining 7 Photo by Bobby Begun Pioneers Basketball New Rochelle 28, Mamaroneck 30 Anderson Alvarez and Bryce Antenor each scored 8 points. Ashley Vasquez and Jerome Cofield Jr. scored 6 points. Luis Tellez and Ruth Wambui had 3 assists.   Selvin and Elvin Jiminez-Ochoa played great defense.  Photos by Anderson Alvarez  Boys Rugby New Rochelle 35, Mount St. Michael 15  New Rochelle 36, Stepinac 43  Girls Rugby New Rochelle 29, Rye 0  New Rochelle 10, Harvey 29 New Rochelle 12, Horace Mann 10 Boys Lacrosse New Rochelle 5, Ossining 11 New Rochelle 7, Dobbs Ferry 9 New Rochelle 9, Hastings 4 New Rochelle 14, Yonkers 0 at Senior Night! Girls Lacrosse New Rochelle 20, Port Chester 8 New Rochelle 8, Edgemont 16 Varsity Golf New Rochelle 228, Yonkers 281  New Rochelle 244, Irvington 273 New Rochelle 245, Edgemont 252 Check out all the great community events happening now! Click Here for Community Events Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Friday, May 15 2026

News from Our Schools: April 30, 2026

News from Our Schools April 30, 2026 Isaac E. Young Middle School Hosts STEAM-sational Event It was a STEAM-sational night at Isaac E. Young Middle School on April 17 as parents, students, teachers, and community members dived into the worlds of science, technology, engineering, art, and math at this year’s STEAMfest. The event, “IEYMS Ignites Innovation: STEAMfest,” engaged hundreds of participants in design challenges and hands-on exploration, ranging from extracting DNA from strawberries to testing robotic arms to analyzing rocket designs. More than 50 staff and student volunteers made the exploration stations possible.  The event also showcased student work, including research projects, a Mars Rover Challenge, and the STEAM Club’s Lego Robotics and Coding station. In addition, there was a station for Media and DIY Club projects and a visit from the high school Robotics Team, proving that STEAM talent can be found across the district. Eighth grader Rawan A. was one of the many students who exhibited their research at this event. As an aspiring dentist and health innovator, she developed an App and received First Place recognition for her project titled: Bite Into Data: How Can Artificial Intelligence Protect Your Teeth?   “Presenting my project on AI in dentistry at STEAMfest has been both exciting and meaningful, because it shows how innovation can be used to create real, positive change,” she said. “What stood out most to me is the freedom to explore ideas we’re genuinely passionate about and how expansive those possibilities feel.”  Sixth grader Kulanya Dickwelle G. received Second Place for her research titled: Hypoxia in Coastal Areas: Affected by Topography in Long Island Sound. “The STEAMfest provided me an opportunity to conduct actual research on our two local parks (Hudson and Davenport) and the effects it has on our marine life."  At the Mars Rover Engineering Challenge, students tested their creativity and problem-solving skills with the help of sixth-grade science teacher Jonathan S. Misner. In a fun, hands-on competition, the students built a Mars Rover using a DC motor and recycled materials. “I was able to build a Mars Rover, using a battery and a motor. I learned all about how energy is transformed and how motors work. It was a really fun experience,” said sixth grader Shamima I. “STEAMfest celebrates inquiry, innovation, and imagination,” said Julie Verville, science chairperson. “This is more than an event; it is a powerful learning extension to help our young learners grow with confidence and creativity, as well as spark new interests and aspirations.”                             The event was the brainchild of science teachers Leidy Rodriguez, Jason Corbett, Natika Jones, and Claudia Gianserra, whose efforts were key to bringing the event to life.   STEAMfest was made possible through a partnership with Mercy University Center for STEM Education as part of the Wipro Science Education Fellowship Program, which seeks to improve STEM teaching and leadership skills of K-12 teachers.  My Brother’s Keeper Fosters Leadership They arrived from different schools, neighborhoods, and backgrounds, but shared a common purpose: to find their voices and learn how to lead. Thirty-eight New Rochelle High School students were among 375 young men who attended the Hudson Valley My Brother’s Keeper Leadership Summit at the Westchester County Center on April 21. The high schoolers, who came from 11 school districts, gathered not just to build skills, but to connect, challenge one another, and imagine a future where their perspectives shape the world around them. They were joined by superintendents and elected officials at the event, which featured keynote speeches and breakout sessions. Nate Adams, My Brother’s Keeper program coordinator, urged attendees to choose themselves for the day as their school communities had chosen them.  "To witness the outcome of the Hudson Valley Symposium on April 21 was truly a rewarding experience for the committee that worked for over 6 months to provide this space for our students,” said Adams. “To see the light in the eyes of our students, to hear the conversations from our young men in the breakout sessions, and to feel the energy in the auditorium lets me know that there are some truly empowered young men formulating their life story here in the City School District of New Rochelle."  The breakout session, titled "Leveling the Playing Field: Addressing Medical Disparities for People of Color," co-led by New Rochelle High School students Stone Pride and Quincy Fosu, encouraged young men to take STEM-related courses seriously, as there is a deficit of men of color in the health care fields.    "I was granted the opportunity to present …on something I truly see myself doing in the future,” Fosu said. “The MBK event gave me the opportunity to build on what already exists within me. I wish we could be poured into like this more often. The statement that stuck with me is that ‘gems can be given freely, but their value depends on the hands that use them.’”  Robotics Team Makes History For the first time in school history, a New Rochelle High School robotics team competed at the World Championships in St. Louis, Mo., from April 21 to 24, having earned their place through local and state competitions. Although the team, known as 19383D, did not bring home a trophy, its members – Daniel Goncalves (captain), Noor Abdalla, Vincent Chen, Paul Gallagher, Penelope Conway, Cesar Hernandez – gained valuable lessons at the four-day, Vex V5 World Competition. After struggling the first day of competition, Gallagher said, they came back on the second day with a “let’s-show-them-what-we’ve-got attitude and an improved game strategy” that led to winning two games. “Was it the greatest,” Gallagher said. “No, but it was something we were proud of. Proud to honor ourselves, friends, family, our school, and city on the global stage in which public schools like ours are few and far between.” The tournament pits the world’s best competitors against each other in changing groups of two per team, and features both pre-programmed robots and robots driven by a team member. Teams showcase their programming skills, game strategy, and ability to work together under pressure. “Competing with the best teams in the world was no easy task,” said Goncalves. “Despite all the work that went into our robot, it was clear our typical strategy of playing offensively wouldn’t work, as our robot had been outclassed.”  However, he said, the team worked to make repairs and improvements on the robot and switched to a defensive strategy, which led to winning two games. “After the matter, we were all very proud of our hard work and the amount of effort and spirit we put in throughout the entire year,” Goncalves said. “And we were very happy to have had a chance to go to worlds and give it our all.” Gallagher said he was particularly proud of Goncalves because “he kept fighting; he didn't give up. He listened to his team and found himself able to go toe-to-toe with bigger, better robots with top drivers. I wouldn’t want to go into any robotics competition without him as leader.” New Rochelle Students Help Plant Tree for Arbor Day Second graders from Trinity Elementary School joined Isaac E. Young Middle School students and New Rochelle City officials for a tree planting at Hudson Park in honor of Arbor Day on April 24. “As a proud Tree City, New Rochelle commemorated Arbor Day with the planting of a Liberty Tree in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Julie Verville, middle school science chair. “This symbolic initiative highlights the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the preservation of natural resources.” The Liberty Tree, a historic symbol of freedom and unity dating back to the American Revolution, serves as a reminder of the nation’s founding ideals. Through this planting, New Rochelle honors its heritage while investing in a more sustainable future.  Fifteen students from Scott Misner’s sixth grade science class at Isaac E. Young Middle School, and second graders from Melody Castiglia's and Jill Ritacco’s classes at Trinity Elementary were in attendance to help plant an elm tree and learn about New Rochelle’s tree program. Trinity Elementary’s Family STEAM Night a Success Families built towers, created bird feeders, and learned about bees at Trinity Elementary School’s Family STEAM Night on April 9. The event for students in kindergarten through second grade drew more than 120 families in two sessions, one from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. and the other from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Led by parent volunteer and engineer Omer Uzun and several high school student volunteers, the event featured interactive stations, informative talks, puzzles, and math games. Tiling, Dominoes, number patterns, puzzles, and strategy games were all part of the fun.  The stations included engineering activities such as building a tower with different-sized cups and popsicle sticks. Families measured the towers to see who could build the tallest one.  Other activities comprised planting seeds for cilantro, basil, and other herbs, and creating bird feeders using pine cones, SunButter, and bird seed. Families also created their own lava lamps in recycled bottles and learned about density and chemical reactions. Zoey B. from Tania Labrosciano's second grade class most enjoyed the lava lamp station. "Density matters," Zoey said. "I learned that oil is less dense than water, and that's why it floats."  Justin L. from Alexandra Berlow’s first grade class said, “I liked making a bird feeder. Now, I can watch the birds eat the food.” Guy K., also from Berlow’s first grade, said his favorite activity was planting. “I liked that we got to use nice, fresh soil to help our plants grow.” At the Estimation Station, families predicted how many items (gram masses, marbles, and sweet gum seed pods) were in each jar. The closest guess for each jar received a prize, including binoculars and a mouse robot. Students and parents also had the opportunity to explore coding with Bee Bots, bee-shaped floor robots. Volunteers from Healthy Yards of New Rochelle spoke to the students and parents about the importance of pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, and birds, explaining how planting native plants can help the environment.   Jefferson Students Learn About Autism Not all people on the autism spectrum are the same. They have different interests, strengths, and weaknesses. That was the message microbiologist Gracelynn Richmond shared with students at Jefferson Elementary School. Richmond visited the school as part of its recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, which is celebrated in April. Following classroom lessons that provided background knowledge, students in kindergarten through first grade met with Richmond in small groups where they could ask questions. She spoke about her childhood, including both joyful experiences and challenges, and emphasized that she enjoyed many of the same things as other children.  Richmond told students that others were not always kind to her, which led to a conversation about empathy and acceptance. Her message went beyond awareness—it centered on the importance of kindness, understanding, and celebrating differences. Richmond, who is a scientist, also inspired students by speaking about following their dreams, working hard, and achieving their goals. It left a lasting impression on our students. “I didn’t know there were different types of autism until the assembly,” said Olivia B. “And I didn’t know about Temple Grandin until the assembly. I am very grateful for the assembly. It was awesome.” Dr. Temple Grandin is an autism activist, animal scientist, and professor at Colorado State University.   Nefertari G. said she learned that people with autism are not less than other people. “It is just how they were born. Many people have autism, and some singers have autism ... They are unique just like us.”  Noah C. said, “The assembly helped me so I can understand what autism is and what it does. Also, the assembly reminded us to be nice to everyone.” “Our students asked insightful questions and shared their reflections, demonstrating both curiosity and compassion. We are grateful for opportunities like this that help us continue building a caring and inclusive school community,” said Jefferson Elementary Principal Kimmerly Nieves.  Saving Civic Education: Classroom to Community at 250 On Friday, March 27, New Rochelle High School teachers and students participated in a panel discussion titled “Saving Civic Education: Classroom to Community at 250” sponsored by Long Island University Hudson.   Teachers Timothy Kuklis and Lissette Van Voorhis represented New Rochelle High School along with students Jax Ciscone, Caitlin Nation, and Stone Pride. The panelists discussed the development of civic education at the high school in grades 9-12, including the annual Civics Fair in which students celebrate civic engagement and student voices. New Rochelle High School awards the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness to students who meet the requirements. Senior Class President Stone Pride was asked how his coursework, such as the AP Government and Politics class, had helped him become more civic-minded. “AP Government & Politics has helped me understand how representation works and how leaders are expected to make decisions that reflect the people they serve,” he said. “At the same time, being senior class president has helped me understand those concepts in a real way. Instead of just learning about representation and listening to a large body of people, similar to what our government is required to do, I’ve had to actually practice it by working with my executive board members, handling different opinions, and making decisions that impact the 700-plus kids in my class.”  Student Jax Ciscone, who serves as executive for Model Congress, was asked if he believed students should be encouraged to take on civic-minded projects such as the one he completed in his AP Government and Politics class. “One hundred percent. I think it allows students to understand that even one small attempt for change can yield huge results,” he said. “Everyone is passionate about something, and applying it to a civics project can spread awareness to fellow students, staff, and most importantly, political figures who can advocate for their constituents.” The event began with a Zoom appearance by Congressman George Latimer, who discussed the significance of civics education in maintaining a healthy democracy. Then, following remarks by several legislators and NYS Regents, including NYS Senator Shelley Mayer, NY State Regents Dr. Frances Wills and Dr. Aramina Bega Ferrer, and the Honorable David F. Everett, the New Rochelle Seal of Civic Readiness team, including several students, had the opportunity to share the development of the program and student accomplishments.   This event gave New Rochelle High School the opportunity to celebrate and highlight civic-minded clubs and organizations, courses, and project-based learning focused on developing the next generation of active citizens.  CBS News Broadcasts from Trinity Elementary for Earth Day Live from Trinity Elementary School, it’s the weather report with CBS News meteorologist John Elliott! Elliott joined Trinity students to broadcast his noon forecast on Earth Day, April 22. He also explained various weather phenomena and talked about the science of weather forecasting. “There is a lot of science in weather forecasting,” said fifth grader Austin A. “One thing I learned was how a tornado starts after warm air from the ground hits cool, dry air from the jet stream and creates the right atmospheric conditions for a severe storm or funnel cloud.”  Zachary D., another fifth grader, was fascinated by Elliott’s real-life stories involving weather events.  “I really liked a story he told about a baby surviving a tornado because of the centrifugal force that kept the baby in a car seat,” he said. “I also learned how to stay safe in a tornado or lightning storm - how you’re better off in a car, and you are not supposed to stand near anything that conducts electricity.”  Elliott’s visit, complete with the Weather Tracker Truck and team, was part of Trinity’s Earth Day Celebration. Students in Yesina Sanchez’s kindergarten class were helped by fourth grade STEAM students from Terri Agravat’s STEAM class to plant seedlings in raised garden beds on the school’s Church Street patio. They planted green and red romaine lettuce, bell peppers, and cilantro. Albert Leonard Middle School Students Solve Real-World Problems Students, families, teachers, and community members gathered at Albert Leonard Middle School on April 11 for its first-ever STEMagination event showcasing student problem-solving skills and creativity.  Twenty-nine students presented research projects in the categories of biology, environmental science, technology, and math. Research focused on alternative vehicles, future transportation systems, robotics challenges, and math-based design solutions. The event highlighted both the depth of student research and their enthusiasm for the work. STEMagination used an exhibit-style format where students pitched their solutions, models, and demonstrations to a panel of judges. Student researchers were excited to share their findings with both the judges and the community. All students received certificates for their projects and presentations, highlighting their work and accomplishments.   The following students were recognized for their projects: Liliana R. & Emeline K., Keeping It Cool (or Warm), Energy Efficient Design; Andrea K. and Leah G., The Science of Diets;  Julia B. & Grace C., Keeping a Room Cool; Abdul Kauf Noorul Z., Automatic Emergency Braking on an EV3 Robot Car; Mila R., Creating Dilations Using the Scale Factor; Issac L., Zakaria R., and Xavier L., grade level recognition for their projects and presentations.  The event was spearheaded by teachers Daphne Platt and Walter Grosvenor, whose leadership was critical to its success.  “We extend our sincere thanks to all of our students, parents, teacher mentors, administrators, project coordinators, and volunteer judges whose support made STEMagination such a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone involved,” said Platt and Grosvenor. “We look forward to continuing this exciting tradition of student innovation in the years ahead.” “Students demonstrated excellent preparation, research, and presentation skills as they shared their projects with staff, peers, and the community,” said Julie Verville, Middle School Science Chair. “It is inspiring to see learning come to life when students apply their creativity to solve real-world challenges.”   STEMagination was made possible through a partnership with Mercy University Center for STEM Education as part of the Wipro Science Education Fellowship Program. Trinity Elementary Celebrates Young Authors Long before most writers find their voice, second graders in Melody Castiglia’s class are already putting pen to paper and creating their own books. That’s why parents and students from other classes at Trinity Elementary School came to Castiglia’s class on April 27 to celebrate its young authors. Castiglia said the project was inspired by a similar event she attended three years ago as a parent in Melissa Tarpey’s first grade class at Ward Elementary. “I fell in love with the idea and have been doing it ever since,” Castiglia said. “All the parents love it.” Students were asked to write a book titled “When I Grow Up, I Will Rule the World.” The resulting works included tales of doctors, teachers, astronauts, and other professionals, while also including fantastical feats like jumping on a star, having telekinesis, and having superhuman strength. All of the student authors proudly read their books at the celebration.    “I was nervous to share my writing, but I did it. I am brave for sharing my writing...that's what authors do,” said Adelynn M. Another student found writing his own story empowering.  "I feel like I can make the things in my writing come true," said King N. Alexander C. said, "I am happy I shared what I wrote. Now everyone knows I want to be a musician and a dad." Castiglia said, “This event is a wonderful opportunity to highlight student voice, creativity, and growth in literacy. New Rochelle High School Eco Warriors Learn and Share at Conference Nine active members of the New Rochelle High School Green Club travelled to New York City on April 18 to attend the Youth Climate Summit at Columbia University.  The all-day event, organized by Eco-Reps, a student group at Columbia, brought together environmentally active high school students from across the New York metro area to learn from scientists and activists. Dr. Ana Luz Porzecanski, the director of the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation at the American Museum of Natural History, delivered the keynote address, which was followed by workshops. One session, led by Dr. Gavin Schmidt, the Director of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, focused on climate modeling and how to combat climate change deniers. Columbia Professor and Environmental Lawyer Christine Appah-Gyamfi led one of the most popular workshops: a session on the environmental impact of the textile and fashion industries. Professor Appah made an impression on New Rochelle High School junior Ashley Perez.    “I learned about how the fashion industries are polluting our planet on a large scale. Countries like Ghana, Kenya, and South Asian nations are affected due to fast fashion,” Perez said. “Even new clothes are being dumped and not being used by the communities that live near these areas. This has shaped my future career plans as a lawyer to advocate more for environmental justice and the punishment of these companies that harm the planet we all live on.”   At the end of the day, the Green Club students and their faculty advisor, Carmen Glenn, worked on developing a climate action plan for the high school. They focused on the issue of food waste, which is being studied district-wide as part of the work of the Green Schools Committee work with CELF, the Children’s Environmental Literacy Foundation. The Green Club presented its work and got to hear from other high school groups.   Two Recognized for Earning Tenure Ward Psychologist Anthony Coppola Ward Elementary School Psychologist Anthony Coppola was honored for earning tenure at the April 23 Board of Education meeting. "Mr. Coppola is a very hard-working and dedicated employee. He strives to be the very best each and every day," said Ward Principal Franco Miele. "Mr. Coppola connects with all of his students, providing them with a safe and secure environment." Mr. Coppola began his career at Ward as an intern before becoming School Psychologist. Congratulations, Mr. Coppola! Assistant Director of Technology Joi Chimera The Board of Education honored Assistant Director of Technology Joi Chimera at the April 9 Board of Education meeting for achieving tenure. Pictured above with colleague Dante Santora, also an Assistant Director of Technology, Chimera joined the school district in 2022. ""We are grateful for Joi's resourcefulness and forward thinking and the many talents she brings to the district," said Assistant Superintendent for Business Carlos X. Leal. Sights and Sounds from Around the District D'Erasmo Accepts Emerging Young Artist Award Senior and playwright Sophia D'Erasmo was honored April 20 at the Palace Theater in Stamford, Connecticut, where her play, Tape and a Timer, was performed live. PAVE Acting Teacher Scott Harris was there to cheer her on as she was presented with the award and a check for $500. Brava! NRHS Business Students Visit Iona Business students from Robert Thompson's and Pete Davis's classes recently visited Iona University to explore the LaPenta School of Business. Students toured the new facilities and met with faculty and alumni, including NRHS alumnus Matt Ricker '14, learning about the transition from high school to university life. Educators Honored with 2026 EcoAward Congratulations to NRHS teacher Carmen Glenn and Jonathan LaRosa from NRHS and Huguenot Academy for receiving the Westchester County 2026 EcoAward! Selected for their "innovative and impactful eco-practices," they were recognized April 23 for their leadership in the New Rochelle Youth Bureau’s Eco-Ambassadors program - a six-week marine science program at Five Islands Pavilion, where they guide local youth in hands-on research and stewardship aimed at protecting the Long Island Sound. Athletics Pioneers Shine at the Special Olympics The New Rochelle Pioneers competed in the 51st Hudson Valley Spring Special Olympics at Shea Stadium, hosted by the U.S. Military Academy on April 26. Our team competed against hundreds of athletes from seven counties. It is the Pioneers’ 11th year of participating. A West Point Cadet partnered with each athlete for the day, as they competed in the 100- and 200-meter runs, the 4x100-meter relay, and the turbo javelin.  Athlete Bryce Antenor said, ”I enjoyed everything about being at the event!" The Pioneers brought home 14 gold medals, 7 silver medals, and 16 bronze medals. There were two fourth-place finishes, seven fifth-place finishes, and three sixth-place. Among the standout performers were Jerome Cofield Jr., Luis Tellez, and Stephen Cortalano, all of whom placed first in the 100-meter. Jennifer Alveraz, Anderson Alveraz, Khiry Ellis, and Maliyah Ellis won the gold in the 4x100-meter unified relay, edging out past years’ rivals.  "This day reflects the dedication, resilience, and hard work of our athletes, as witnessed through their smiles, laughter, and proud moments,” said parent Omar Jackson. “We are deeply thankful for our coaches, staff, and the school district’s support, which makes it possible to sustain a program built on inclusion and achievement for individuals of all abilities.” “This is a day that is much more than just athletics,” said Head Coach Rhonda Boychew. “It is so rewarding to see the camaraderie that naturally happens between the cadets and the athletes. Both build memories that will last a lifetime.”  Athletic Director Joe Donaldson, who was there to cheer on the team, said, “It’s a wonderful day for our student-athletes and families. A special thank you goes to Coaches Rhonda Boychew and JP Goncalves for their unwavering support and commitment to our New Rochelle Pioneers. Many thanks also to our support staff and security team.”  Senior Luis Tellez, who has been part of the team since middle school, was awarded the “Medals to Create Miracles” Award during the opening ceremonies, which recognizes an athlete who possesses the qualities of compassion, love, caring, laughter, and dedication. “Luis has grown into a competitive athlete in floorball, basketball, track and field, and volleyball,” said Coach Boychew. “He is a kind athlete who is well-liked by his peers. Luis is dedicated to the team both on and off the court; he cheers from the bench and on the field. Luis is truly deserving of this recognition.”   Varsity Flag Football photos by Bobby Begun JV Flag Football is Undefeated 8 Games In New Rochelle 28, Bronxville 24 New Rochelle 6, North Rockland 0 New Rochelle 19, Yonkers Public 6 New Rochelle 19, Brewster 6 New Rochelle 12, Horace Greeley 6 New Rochelle 38, Scarsdale 6 New Rochelle 32, Eastchester 0 New Rochelle 18, Yonkers Public 13  Varsity Flag Football New Rochelle 19, Brewster 0 New Rochelle 25, Yonkers 0 New Rochelle 32, Mount Vernon 0 New Rochelle 20, Ossining 12 New Rochelle 0, Mamaroneck 13 New Rochelle 14, Scarsdale 21 New Rochelle, Yonkers   JV Baseball New Rochelle 9, White Plains 5 New Rochelle 14, Ossining 0  New Rochelle 9, Mamaroneck 5 Golf New Rochelle 247, Scarsdale 204  New Rochelle 231, White Plains 235   Varsity Baseball New Rochelle 3, Pelham 1 New Rochelle 2, Mamaroneck 5 Varsity Softball New Rochelle 6, Nanuet 10 New Rochelle 0, Tappan Zee 13   Boys and Girls Varsity Track and Field are League Champions! Congratulations to our track and field teams on winning the leagues! The win featured outstanding performances by Olivia Solomon, 1500, 800; Elisa Crisp 100, 200, 4x400; Alivia Smith, 100H, Long Jump; Sophia Casmir, Pentathlon; and Alexis Smith 400H.   Girls Lacrosse New Rochelle 8, Byram Hills 21 New Rochelle 6, Scarsdale 14  New Rochelle 0, Horace Greeley 12  Boys Lacrosse New Rochelle 3, Blind Brook 11 New Rochelle 6, Eastchester/Tuckahoe 7   Boys Rugby New Rochelle 17, Harvey School 29 Check out all the great community events happening now! Click here for community events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, Apr 30 2026

News from Our Schools: April 16, 2026

News from Our Schools April 16, 2026 New Rochelle Students Advance to International Science and Engineering Fair New Rochelle High School seniors Scarlett Hartzman and Carlos Del Aguila have earned a second straight trip to the International Science and Engineering Fair after placing in the top 20 out of 827 competitors at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair. They will compete at the international fair in Phoenix, Ariz., May 9-15. Scarlett's project explored potential travel routes for rovers on Mars and identified geological targets for future human missions to Mars. Carlos’s project focused on how a federal food assistance program affects quality of life across the United States.  “I'm extremely grateful and beyond excited to represent New Rochelle High School at ISEF,” said Scarlett, who won in the physics and astronomy category. “I love my field of research and hope to one day work in the space industry where I can help bring the first humans to Mars." Carlos, who won in the behavioral science category, said “ISEF is the greatest opportunity a student can have to not only share their findings, but also to be surrounded by other science-driven students like oneself. I'm excited to meet and interact with the international community.” New Rochelle Science Research Program Coordinator Erica Curran praised Scarlett and Carlos, the first two New Rochelle students to advance to ISEF two consecutive years. “Scarlett and Carlos have worked tirelessly for years on their research, and their awards are well deserved,” Curran said. “They are both making meaningful, impressive contributions to the body of research in their field. We are so proud that they will be representing New Rochelle High School and our research program.”  New Rochelle Science Research sent 48 research students to WESEF, the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair, this year, the highest number in the program’s history. In addition, New Rochelle had the greatest number of students winning first through third place medals, and the greatest number of first place winners of any participating school with five overall. Scarlett, salutatorian for the Class of 2026, has devoted much of her time in high school to science research and musical pursuits, but she has made time for fun. Among other things, she founded the Crochet Club and the Robotics Club, and participates in the Chess Club.She has also won numerous awards for her science research. Carlos, who will be the first in his family to attend college, is a Questbridge Scholar and will attend Harvard University to study applied mathematics with a focus on sociology. He is President of New Rochelle High School Student Government. Davis Students Advance to Destination Imagination Finals A team of George M. Davis Elementary School second graders earned second place in the New York State Destination Imagination competition, earning a place in the global finals in Kansas City, Mo., next month. Destination Imagination is a not-for-profit educational program that promotes creativity by having students solve open-ended challenges that blend science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Teams develop a solution to a challenge over a three- to six-month season, then present it at a tournament. The Davis team, known as the Color Whirl Kids, chose the Fine Arts challenge titled "Becoming Super." They were to create an origin story about how one character becomes a superhero and another character becomes a supervillain when placed in the same situation.  The team also had to create a technical costume using the principles of STEM and use stage makeup to enhance the performance. All teams had a budget of $175 and eight minutes to present their performance. The Color Whirl Kids team formed in October with seven students who meet weekly for two hours to develop their solution to the DI challenge. A key element of DI is that students create their solution without adult assistance. They design all props, costumes and other artistic and/or technical elements necessary to bring the presentation to life.  The Color Whirl Kids gave an inspiring performance about a Wacky Wednesday Parade at their imaginary school of "Rainbow Tornado Academy" where one character ate rainbow candy to become a superhero who could make objects colorful. Meanwhile, the supervillain eats a black and white candy to be able to steal the color from anything he touches. The performance involves music, dancing, singing, and a four foot tall backdrop that transforms into their classroom with a light up "smart board." Their technical costume- a backpack "cape" of pool noodles shaped like the rainbow has over 100 lights individually wrapped in colorful cellophane to create a rainbow light effect. Not to mention a "rainbow tornado" headband that spins on a repurposed wand toy.  In the end the students created a happy ending in which the superhero and class work together to give rainbow powers to their supervillain classmate with their rendition of "we're all in this together." “The Color Whirl Kids were the youngest team in their division this year in the state of New York, largely competing against students from third, fourth and fifth grades across the elementary age level,” said parent Marissa Beattie, one of the group's leaders and a Destination Imagination alumnus. “Through months of hard work and teamwork, they have shown that age is no barrier to innovation.” Trinity Elementary Students Raise and Release Trout Fourth graders from Trinity Elementary School journeyed to Rockefeller State Park on April 8 to release 125 trout fingerlings into the Pocantico River.  The trip marked the completion of a six-month “Trout in the Classroom” project that saw the students raise the juvenile brown trout from eggs. Along the way, students learned about the life cycle of trout, the need to protect our waterways, and the connection between humans and the ecosystem. On release day, students from Griselda Pena’s class and Terri Agravat’s STEAM class were joined by partners at New York State Parks and the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, who helped them acclimate and release the trout. Students learned about how the trout's needs will be met in their new natural habitat. They also observed macroinvertebrates that the trout eat in the wild, such as caddis fly larvae, scuds, and threadworms. Now in its seventh year at Trinity Elementary, the Trout in the Classroom program, sponsored by Trout Unlimited, a nationwide not-for-profit dedicated to conservation, teaches students the importance of protecting water quality.  For a period of six months, students help feed the trout and monitor the water quality of the tank. They test levels of pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates in the water and learn about stream ecology, aquatic habitats, watershed protection, trout anatomy and life cycle, and the food chain. “This amazing first-hand experience allows students to make connections between the trout, the environment, and our precious water resources. It helps to foster a sense of environmental stewardship in our students,” said Agravat. The students were excited and protective of the fingerlings they had raised. "I think it was so much fun. I learned that the trout need it to be around 50 degrees,” said Catherine A. “Hopefully, no one eats my trout."  Idris M. said, "It was fun and different. I liked releasing the fish."  Like a proud parent, Amelia A., declared the fish “really cute.” Jefferson Students Share Civic Science Projects at Blue Schools Symposium Have you ever wondered how snow melt affects local water systems? Or why pollinator gardens are important? If so, Jefferson Elementary School students have some answers for you. Fourth and fifth graders from Jefferson Elementary recently presented on these and other topics at the Blue Schools Symposium at the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. The symposium showcased civic science projects focused on environmental stewardship and sustainability. After researching their subjects throughout the school year, students had the opportunity to present their findings to peers, educators and community members at the symposium.  “I felt nervous and worried and also excited at the same time when presenting,” said Ghaby. “But (presenting) is important because it tells people our opinion about different things that we know about.” Students presented on a wide array of topics. One group discussed the development of a pollinator garden, explaining how native plants support bees, butterflies, and other essential pollinators while improving local ecosystems. Another group highlighted its work with tower gardens, showing how vertical growing systems conserve space and water while producing healthy crops.  “The Blue Schools Symposium provided a meaningful platform for Jefferson students to build confidence, practice public speaking, and engage with environmental science in an authentic setting,” said teacher Lucia Brea. Other projects that showcased student creativity and scientific inquiry included a study on snowmelt, examining how melting snow affects local water systems and what that means for environmental planning and safety. Fifth grade students Yudesh and Ximena presented a large-scale project centered on cleaning and protecting the environment. Their work focused on identifying sources of pollution, understanding the effects on local habitats, and proposing actions that individuals and communities could take to reduce their environmental footprint. Students emphasized the importance of responsibility and teamwork in creating lasting environmental change. All of the projects presented were part of the school’s civic science curriculum, which encourages students to research real issues, ask meaningful questions, and design solutions that can positively impact their community. Some projects have already been completed, while others are ongoing, allowing students to continue refining their ideas and collecting data beyond the symposium. For many students, the experience made them eager to learn more.   “I loved sharing what I learned, and while in the aquarium, I wanted to ask them, what is the pH for different tanks, do they test their waters? I am still curious about so much information. I wish I had more time at the aquarium,” said Paulina. Teachers and organizers praised the students for their preparation, curiosity, and dedication to learning.  “Jefferson Elementary is proud of its students for their thoughtful work and commitment to caring for the environment, and the school looks forward to continuing its civic science initiatives in the months ahead,” said Principal Nieves. New Rochelle High School Civics Fair 2026 In celebration of both the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Seal of Civic Readiness, New Rochelle High School hosted its annual Civics Fair on March 25, sponsored by the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence.   The event focused on the political ideals promised in the Declaration of Independence and whether those promises are being upheld for young people and immigrants today. In the morning, teachers brought their classes to the library to view students’ Civic Participation Projects, a component of the Seal of Civic Readiness, and discuss students’ ideas for change. Volunteer New York also participated, hosting a voter registration drive and sharing information with students about local volunteer opportunities. The afternoon portion of the event featured a panel discussion with local leaders, including Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert, Assistant Principal Valerie Cadet-Simpkins, and Chief of the Rackets Bureau at the Manhattan District, Christopher Conroy.   For each topic, four students joined the expert panel to discuss their ideas in relation to the broader theme. For issues related to young people, Abigail Shammas and Alani Galvan addressed equal access to education, Ian McCloskey addressed gun violence, and Cory Seelenfreund raised issues around the impact of AI on the future of young people.   The immigration discussion featured Isabella Simons, who is currently completing an AP Capstone project on the topic; Areli Morgado, and Melany Gallardo, who addressed the issues around asylum; and Celeste Rogove, who discussed ICE enforcement. Panelist Cadet-Simpkins praised student participants. "I relished the opportunity to answer student questions about their genuine civic interests and help them make authentic real-world connections to the policies and procedures we have put in place as a school community,” she said. “The event was a thoughtful forum to hold complex discussions, and I hope more students get to experience learning in this powerful way." Senior Areli Morgado said, “We were happy to have our voices heard on a subject that we care deeply about.”   Areli, a member of the Social Studies Honors Society, is one of many seniors on track to earn her Seal of Civic Readiness. Areli is considering studying political science in college for a possible career in law.   Albert Leonard Middle School Peer Leaders Teach About Human Rights Clean water. Freedom from bullying. Equal education for girls. These are just some of the human rights issues that Albert Leonard Middle School students learned about on March 27 during public service presentations by their peers.  Seventh graders Emilia, Kensie, Julia, Leah, Maevah, Kayleigh, and Simon underwent special training at the 11th Annual Human Rights Institute for Middle School Leaders sponsored by the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center (HHREC) back in November.  As part of their training, the students pledged to create public service presentations to educate their peers about human rights. Two students presented to each seventh grade social studies class on enduring issues in connection with human rights and organizations working to protect those rights. The students highlighted work by Water.org; the World Wildlife Fund; Digital Promise; Stomp Out Bullying; the Malala Fund; and UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund. In addition to offering information, the presenters led students in a Jeopardy game to test their recall of important facts about the highlighted organizations.     By all accounts, the presentations were well-received.  “This was a fantastic presentation. It was one of the best I’ve seen in my 11 years of teaching,” said social studies teacher Mary Bongo. “The enduring issues connection makes it really applicable for the Regents exams.”  Presenters benefited as well. “We have worked hard, we have practiced, and we have prepared,” said student presenter Kensington. “Now we get to put these skills to use and use them to the best of our abilities.”  Student presenter Julia called the effort “one of the most fun and educational experiences of my life,” and student presenter Emilia said she was “honored to have been chosen for this program.”  Lastly, student presenter Simon summed it up, saying, “It’s a fun experience. You get to work with nice people and learn things you wouldn’t learn in your regular classes. It’s a different way to present to your peers.”  Faculty Advisor Jesse Timpanaro said he was particularly impressed by the collaborative efforts of the students working together to create this presentation.  “Overall, this whole experience has been wonderful; these students have really worked hard gathering research and incorporating their own experiences and perspectives,” Timpanaro said. “The whole Peer Leader Team did a magnificent job of empowering their classmates with the information and motivation to become active citizens and upstanders in their community.”   New Rochelle High School Hosts Second Black Leadership Conference Nearly 250 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence and 163 years since the Emancipation Proclamation, African Americans continue to work for equal opportunity and equal recognition in the United States. That was the theme of New Rochelle High School’s second Black Leadership Conference, “Our Social Dilemma: From Jubilee to Today,” which was held on Feb.28 at the conclusion of Black History Month. Upperclassmen in the My Brother’s Keeper and My Sister, Keep Her programs planned the event in collaboration with the New Rochelle NAACP Youth Chapter and Youth Council. Aisha Cook, president of the New Rochelle NAACP chapter and fourth grade teacher at Columbus Elementary, kicked off the conference with a presentation on the Emancipation Proclamation and what it actually accomplished.  Then the visitors split up to experience two of the four student-led (plus one teacher-led) breakout sessions about how African Americans have wrestled with “freedom” since the end of slavery in this country: Educational Freedom & Young X  Social Media: Mind, Soul, then Body - The Physical Effect Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome, Beauty Standards, & Black Women’s Mental Health Black Inventors Contributions to American Fashion & Music The Pipeline to Health Equity: How STEM Access Shapes Black Health Outcomes. Jaden Cooper, a member of the Gospel choir, led the group in “Lift Every Voice & Sing” to start the program. New Rochelle Councilpersons David Peters and Matthew Stern were in attendance, as well as New Rochelle Police Commissioner Neil Reynolds and a representative from state Sen. Shelley B. Mayer’s office.  Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz, daughter of the late Malcolm X, Visits New Rochelle High School Award-winning author, educator and daughter of Malcolm X, Dr. Ilyasah Shabazz visited New Rochelle High School on March 11 to speak about her father, her parent’s legacy and the importance of telling African American stories. Dr. Shabazz spoke about growing up and attending private school in Westchester County while trying to preserve her father’s civil rights legacy. She urged students gathered in the Linda Kelly Theater to take care of themselves and their community and to determine their own futures. “You are important,” she said. “You are important.” Her visit to the high school, bridging Black History Month in February and Women’s History Month in March, was sponsored by the New Rochelle High School Black History Month Committee, the high school administration and the Greater Hudson Valley NY Chapter of the Links, Incorporated.  “Today was a very important day for our young people, to hear the true message of Malcolm X and its relevance today. The message of human rights, focused on love, education, and humanity, is a message that all need to hear,” said Laurie Collins-Thomas, a 29-year veteran teacher at the high school and the president of the GHV Links Inc.    “Young people need to realize their self-worth and be able to advocate for themselves and those who are marginalised and can not advocate for themselves,” she said, adding that it had been an honor to bring Dr. Shabazz, a community leader, activist, and national figure to speak with the students. After her general remarks, Dr. Shabazz, who has written a memoir, “Growing Up X,” participated in a book talk with Harmony Hopwood. Harmony is the president of the school poetry club and Westchester Poet Laureate.  “The event was wonderful and inspirational,” Harmony said. “Dr. Shabazz was really articulate and shared great anecdotes about how activism and self-confidence impacted her life.”   Prior to the event, students in several literature and government classes were assigned to read the Prologue and first Chapter of “Growing Up X” and to prepare questions for Dr. Shabazz. The high school Gospel Choir kicked off the event with the inspired lyrics of the first verse of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson. Dr. Shabazz’s visit concluded with a book-signing where each student in attendance had the opportunity to interact with her. Attendees were impressed.  “When the gospel choir students hijacked Dr. Shabazz to take pictures, she was so lovely and open to interacting with each of us,” said senior Katlego Mokome. “Even though she was too young to remember what happened, she is still carrying on the legacy of her father, Malcolm X, which was so inspiring.”  Class of 2026 president Stone Pride said he “enjoyed how she used the teachings of Malcolm X and adjusted them so they could be beneficial to us students.”   Huguenot Academy Students Get Close-Up View of the Future Huguenot Academy students had a hands-on lesson in alternative energy and a glimpse of what their future could be during a visit to our partners at Soulful Synergy on March 25. Students participated in a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), technical class and learned about the various certification options in the field. They also networked with current students who are New Rochelle High School alumni, as well as with instructors and potential employers.  The students who participated were junior Joe Cilento and seniors Jawan Jackson, Jonathan Phillips-Blades, and Gerardo Yoguez. They returned to Huguenot Academy excited about the future and could be heard encouraging younger peers with statements like, "Time. Dedication, Effort! or "Anything you put your mind to, you're capable of doing it. No distractions!"  "I appreciate Soulful Synergy opening up their doors to our students. This was a real-life, eye-opening, life-changing experience,” said Christopher Tuck, school counselor. “To have a facility like this steps away from our door, that is free and available, is awesome." Huguenot Academy Director Dr. Merica Neufville said, "I appreciate Soulful Synergy for partnering with us. This is another example of how Huguenot Academy shows our students that their success in school, in the community, and in life beyond high school matters a great deal to us all." Soulful Synergy was the recipient of a $450,000 grant from the New York Power Authority to train students to work in weatherization, energy efficiency, building electrification, and other fields. Soulful Synergy was founded in 2013 to train workers in underserved communities. “By advancing equitable economic systems, protecting our environment, and strengthening local capacity, we aim to build a world where resilience, justice, and shared prosperity are the foundation of thriving societies,” NYPA’s mission statement says. NRHS DECA Members Take On State Business Competition in Rochester From March 4-6, 22 students from the New Rochelle High School DECA Club traveled to Rochester to represent the school at the DECA State Competitive Events Competition. Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is an international organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.  Competing against peers from more than 120 high schools throughout New York State, NRHS students participated in both individual and team events. The rigorous competition included a written test and an interactive role play, where students solved real-world business dilemmas on the fly, judged by industry professionals.  “This is what we think of when we talk about cooperative and project-based learning, bringing real-world experiences to our students. I can’t think of any better way to do it than what DECA is offering as a program,” said DECA advisor Gary Weed.  “DECA was a positive experience for me because it pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and apply real-world business and communication skills,.” said junior Naolin Concha, who is Chapter Secretary. “Competing required me to think quickly, present ideas clearly, and respond to questions in a professional manner. It was also highly rewarding to see our preparation and effort come together in a finished product.”     Senior Vanessa Vera said, “DECA has been a very exciting and engaging experience for me. Over these past two years, I have been able to make connections and network with students from all around the state. I have also enjoyed the opportunity to test my skills and grow both academically and personally, as well as gain a deeper appreciation for Business and entrepreneurship."  Senior Justin Craig said, “Competing was an amazing and insightful experience. I enjoyed the competitive nature of DECA. I feel the experience has better prepared me to be successful in college, my future career, and in life in general.”  The event was sponsored by The New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence; My Money Workshop and the Richard Yaffa family; and the Martin Silver Fund. This is NRHS DECA’s fourth year. Membership is open to all. Contact gweed@nredlearn.org or click this link for the DECA guide https://issuu.com/decainc/docs/deca-2022-hs-guide?fr=sNGM4NDUxNzA3NDk Congratulations Tenured Teachers and Staff! Davis Elementary School At the March 26 Board of Education meeting at City Hall, Principal Anthony Bambrola honored two Davis Elementary School Teachers who have earned tenure: General Education Teacher Arielle Lowe, and Special Education Teacher Francesca Perticaro. Mr. Bambrola presented them with certificates and words of praise for all they do for our students. Congratulations to both! Principal Anthony Bambrola and Elementary Teacher Arielle Lowe Principal Anthony Bambrola with Teacher Francesca Perticaro   Jefferson Elementary School Five Jefferson Elementary School teachers were recognized in the Board of Education Chambers at City Hall at the Board's April 9 meeting. Principal Kimmerly Nieves highlighted the newly tenured staff, detailing their accomplishments and sharing what makes them special to their students and colleagues. Left to Right: Jefferson Assistant Principal Salvatore Spataro, Teacher Jacky Contreras, Speech and Language Teacher Lesley Solinger, Teacher Gina Gunther, Teacher Victoria Vallaro, Teacher Daniela Cocucci, and Principal Kimmerly Nieves Schools Closed on May 26 and May 27 - Unless We Have Another Weather Day Many are asking whether there will be weather make-up days on May 26 and May 27. As of today, April 16, schools will be closed on both dates. The district calendar for this school year includes 180 student instructional days, along with three Superintendent’s Conference Days, for a total of 183 session days eligible for state aid. To date, the district has utilized three snow days. Following the winter storm on February 22–23, Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency. As a result, school districts that closed on February 23 to ensure the safety of students and staff were granted a waiver from the 180-day requirement for that day. Additionally, districts forced to close for additional days - like ours - could apply to waive an additional day, which we did. With only two countable weather-related closures this year, the district remains in compliance with the state’s 180-day instructional requirement. In the unlikely event that schools must close for two or more additional days between now and May 22, the district may need to utilize May 26 and/or May 27 as instructional days to meet state requirements. Should any additional closures occur, the district will promptly communicate any updates regarding the status of May 26 and May 27. Sights and Sounds from Around the District World Read Aloud Day Henry Barnard School celebrated World Read Aloud Day and Read Across America Day! Parent volunteers read books aloud to students. Some parents even came with activities to follow! It was a special experience to see families actively participating in the classroom. The students were excited and engaged, and it created a meaningful connection between home and school. Events like these highlight the importance of parent involvement in a child’s education. When families take part in activities like reading in the classroom, it reinforces the value of literacy and shows students that reading is something to be celebrated both at school and at home. The event was organized by the Barnard Reading Department, under the direction of Kimberly Purzewski. Barnard's Read-A-Thon Barnard is celebrating its first-ever Read-A-Thon! The school set a goal to raise funds to support end-of-the-year events and to promote reading among its youngest students. They had an assembly to kick off the April event with Iona University Spirit Teams, including: Iona University Cheerleaders Iona University Dance Team Iona University Gold Line Director: Mrs. Kristie DiZenzo  Asst: Mr. Sherquan Dailey AND Iona University's Mascot Killian! There are weekly prizes for students who fill in their Read-A-Thon bingo cards, for the top readers in each grade, and for the top class in each grade. Take Home Science Kits The New Rochelle High School Science Honor Society, led by advisor Valerie Zumbo, created take-home science experiment kits for some third through fifth grade Trinity and Jefferson Elementary students.   The idea originated with Science Honor Society member Jessenia Abrego and is meant to make science enrichment opportunities available to elementary students. Each kit contains the supplies needed for one easy experiment, plus instructions. Students took the kits home over break to have something fun and educational to do outside of school.  The kit challenged students to create a Balloon-Powered car. The Honor Society, led by senior Abigail Woodruff, created a video explaining how to create the car and the physics behind its movement. The students had fun creating their cars and learning about forces, motion, and energy! Aladdin Jr. Congratulations to the Daniel Webster Elementary School cast of Aladdin Jr. on an outstanding performance! Fourth and fifth grade students practiced the play for 10 days, then performed on stage in late January to delighted audiences who gave them standing ovations. Third graders also put in 10 days of hard work on the choral songs, wowing attendees with their music. Following the performance, families were able to stream the video to again enjoy the performance at home. Brava and bravo to all the Webster cast members! Alumni News NRHS alumnus ('25) and current Monroe University student Philip Surpis recently traveled to Albany for a Student Lobby Day. Surpis and other Monroe students met with elected officials to discuss issues such as support for state tuition assistance programs, sharing his story and perspectives with state senators and assemblymembers. Surpis is studying Computer Networks and Cybersecurity at Monroe and currently holds a perfect 4.0 grade point average after his first semester. Athletics Flag Football New Rochelle 46, Port Chester 0 New Rochelle 19, Brewster 0 New Rochelle 21, Clarkstown South 0 Photo credit: Bobby Begun   Girls Lacrosse New Rochelle 8, Putnam Valley 18 New Rochelle at Byram Hills April 16 at 4:30 p.m. Photo credit: Bobby Begun   Ward Basketball For the fourth time in school history, William B. Ward Elementary won both the Boys and Girls Winter Elementary Basketball Leagues. The Liberty and Warriors completed their sweep of the city championship in a thrilling double header at New Rochelle High School on March 14. The Ward Liberty had an undefeated season and won its 15th title with a 36-point effort. For the sixth time in seven games, all five starters scored multiple baskets. Coco, Violet, Kayla, Emilia, and Chizara each scored at least 30 points in the season. Fifth graders Stevie, Bria, and Zoe provided great minutes off the bench. Fourth graders Emily, Sofia, Ava, Adriana, and Ava played a huge role in each winning effort.  The Ward Warriors completed their second consecutive undefeated season. Led by MVP captain Christian, alongside back-to-back champions Matthew and Chioma, the team showcased outstanding teamwork, discipline, and dedication all season. Key contributions from Tonio, Roosevelsen, Brody, Colin, Frankie, Logan, Johnny, Max, Dominick, and Kaiyan helped solidify a true championship culture. Special thanks to team managers Gabe and Greyson for their support. Under the leadership of Coaches DeParis Banks and Dylan Erber, the Ward Warriors’ historic back-to-back undefeated seasons are a testament to hard work, unity, and excellence. Congratulations to the Ward Warriors on an unforgettable achievement!   New Rochelle Pioneers Track and Field The New Rochelle pioneers traveled to Mahopac on Saturday, April 11, to compete in time trials for track and field in preparation for spring games at West Point Military Academy on April 26. Athletes competed in the 100-meter dash, the 200-meter dash, the 4 x 100-meter relay turbo, javelin, and multiple unified events.   Pioneers Host Basketball Tournament New Rochelle Pioneers participated in the regional basketball tournament at New Rochelle High School on March 14. This is the 11th year New Rochelle has hosted this event. The Pioneers' White Team placed second in their division, and the Purple Team placed fourth. Coach Boychew thanks the Varsity and JV teams, and many honor society students who showed up to volunteer at the event. Parents and Coaches praised the wonderful job they did. Congratulations to all! Pioneers Basketball The Pioneers played a close basketball game against Mt. Vernon on March 17. Ashley Vasquez scored 20 points, and Anderson Alvarez and Stephen Cortalano each scored 8 points. The Pioneers beat White Plains 26-20 on March 24 and continued the winning streak against Tuckahoe, finishing 12-8. Ashley, Anderson, Bryce, Khiry, Jerry and JJ were top scorers. Luis and Selvin were top rebounders. Ruth and Noah were top in assists. Fernando scored his first 4 points of his career.   Solomon Sets Record Olivia Solomon has become the fastest Sophomore in NYS history by breaking the 800-meter run with a time of 2:07.11, March 14-15 at the Nike Nationals held at the Armory in NYC. The previous record was held by Mary Cane from Bronxville in 2012.  Girls Track and Field The NRHS Girls Track Team won the Freshman Sophomore Championship and the Varsity Championship at Uniondale High School on Long Island on April 11. Well done, teams! Nike Nationals Girls Track Congratulations to Alexis Smith, Alivia Smith, Elisa Crisp, and Olivia Solomon, who became Nike Nationals All Americans, finishing second with a time of 3:57.4 in the girls Sprint Medley Relay at the Nike Nationals! The team finished second in the state and in the nation.  George Greene named Westchester Indoor Coach of the Year Congratulations to George Greene, Teaching Assistant at New Rochelle High School, for being named Coach of the Year—for the second year in a row! This back-to-back honor is a testament to George’s dedication, leadership, and positive impact on students and the school community. Check out all the great community events happening now! Click here for community events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, Apr 16 2026

News from Our Schools: March 26, 2026

News from Our Schools March 26, 2026 The City School District Of New Rochelle Awarded for Energy Conservation It pays to be energy conscious! The City School District of New Rochelle received a $107,195 GridRewards rebate check in recognition of its leadership in energy conservation during peak-use hours.  The check was presented to student members of the Green Schools Committee at a celebration in the Board of Education Chambers at City Hall on March 18. Committee members were joined by representatives of Sustainable Westchester and Logical Buildings, a climate technology provider, along with local elected and school district officials.  “Our partnership with Sustainable Westchester and Logical Buildings continues to deliver results for the taxpayers and community of New Rochelle,” said Keith W. Watkins, CDF, director of facilities, City School District of New Rochelle. “We are thrilled to have earned a record-setting amount during the past year, even as we demonstrate the importance of environmental and energy leadership to our students.” Logical Buildings’ SmartKit AI technology alerted the facilities staff of key peak energy demand hours during the summer of 2025, and the school district reduced energy usage at 10 schools in the district by approximately 1 MW, a 22.8% increase in savings from 2024. This reduction helped avoid the need to power up fossil fuel peaker power plants, which are extremely costly to operate and highly polluting. New Rochelle was the first school district in New York to participate in Logical Buildings’ Demand Response Program, starting in 2023.  Facilities Director Watkins joined students in accepting the $107,195 rebate presented by Lauren Brois, Director of Programming at Sustainable Westchester, and David Klatt, COO of Logical Buildings. Klatt also presented Watkins with a Climate Community Leader Excellence Award for his leadership in conservation.  “I am proud that the New Rochelle City School District is setting the pace for our county,” said City of New Rochelle Council Member Sara Kaye. “Thanks to the commitment of students, teachers, faculty, and staff, New Rochelle is doing its part to cut pollution, improve public health, strengthen the grid, and save money.” Members of the City of New Rochelle High School’s Green Club spoke at the celebration, showcasing the passion and leadership of young people in addressing climate and energy challenges. The students have been instrumental in educating parents and residents about the GridRewards program, achieving the highest number of sign-ups among all Westchester towns.  Ten schools were activated on the platform in 2025: Albert Leonard Middle School, Columbus Elementary School, Daniel Webster Elementary School, George M. Davis Elementary School, Henry Barnard School, Isaac E. Young Middle School, Jefferson Elementary School, New Rochelle High School, Trinity Elementary School, and William B. Ward Elementary School. Erber Headed to International Business Competition in Atlanta New Rochelle High School sophomore Emily Erber took the top prize in her respective competitive event category at the Distributive Educational Clubs of America (DECA) competition for emerging leaders and entrepreneurs, which was held from March 4 through March 6 in Rochester.  DECA prepares students to become emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges across the country and abroad. An integral part of the curriculum, DECA’s industry-validated competitive events are aligned with the National Curriculum Standards in the career clusters of marketing, business management and administration, finance, and hospitality and tourism. Emily will now become the first New Rochelle High School student to represent New York State at the DECA International Career Development Conference in Atlanta, Georgia in late April.  She said winning the award was surreal. “There were so many incredibly talented students there, and everyone was so prepared and passionate about what they were doing, so just being part of that environment was really inspiring. Hearing my name called made all the preparation worth it, and I felt really grateful for the opportunity.” Students competed as a team or individually against more than 120 high schools throughout the state. The event involved a written test and an interactive component with a real-world role-play scenario judged by an industry professional. Events are classified by industry and career cluster and contribute to students’ college- and career-readiness when they graduate.   “The DECA program allows our students to transform classroom theory into professional practice,” said NRHS Business Teacher Gary Weed, who has advised the DECA club since its founding three years ago. “Beyond the competition, it provides Emily and her peers invaluable access to a global network of ambitious students and established industry leaders.”   Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles said, “I congratulate Emily on this historic achievement. She is the first student in New Rochelle High School’s history to represent our school at the international event. We could not be more proud of her and will be cheering her all the way to Atlanta.”  As an international competitor, Emily will compete for scholarship money in front of an audience of some 20,000 people. She is still exploring potential college majors and career fields. She credited her involvement in DECA, the Science Research Program at NRHS, and her advisors and family for boosting her success so far.  Emily is also a community volunteer with a non-profit she founded with her brother called The Celiac Shelf, which focuses on addressing food insecurity and the high cost of gluten-free food by providing safe, accessible options to people who need them. She says the experience has taught her how business and science come together to solve real problems and make a direct impact.  High School Senior D’Erasmo Wins Emerging Young Artist Award New Rochelle High School senior Sophia D’Erasmo has been named an Emerging Young Artist by the Palace Theater in Stamford, CT, for her one-act play, “Tape and a Timer.”  The play, which follows a stage manager in the chaotic lead-up to a show’s opening, will be read on stage at the Palace Theater with a professional director and actors on April 20. Sophia was one of three students recognized for playwriting. During rehearsals, the students will further develop their plays and characters with guidance from Luis Salgado, director/producer/choreographer. “I actually didn’t go into writing this with any inspiration in particular. It started off as a bunch of kids in a rush line to see a show and then I decided I wanted to shed light onto stage managers,” said Sophia. “I was shocked when I found out that I had won the award. I was really nervous to submit it, I wasn’t sure how many people would want to read it, never mind want to see it come to life!” Scott Harris, high school PAVE acting teacher and Isaac E. Young Middle School theater teacher/director, said “Sophia wrote a truly excellent play. It was a pleasure to read, and I was happy to support her through the writing, editing, and workshopping processes … The play tumbled out so quickly. It was a story she clearly wanted to tell, and it reflects her passion for all things theatre and Broadway.”  Sophia, who is stage managing the high school musical, “Firebringer,” said she has been writing short stories, film plots and scripts for a long time but lacked the confidence to share them. “I was really insecure about my writing but PAVE helped me with being more comfortable and confident,” she said. “In my first year of PAVE, we wrote a lot of scripts and read them for each other, which helps everyone get used to having people read their work … and we get lots of tips from classmates, teachers and senior mentors.” Sophia said she is looking forward to seeing other winners’ work and learning from professionals at the reading, and hopes her family and friends will be able to attend. In her free time, Sophia stage manages at 54 Below, a cabaret theater in New York City committed to supporting emerging and established artists. She plans to attend Pace University in the fall, where she will major in stage management. Photo credit: Charlie Webb CJW Photos From Pain to Print: Alumnus Ted Meyer Transforms Trauma into Art New Rochelle High School’s Museum of Arts and Culture (MAC) recently transformed into a space of healing as world-renowned artist Ted Meyer (NRHS ‘76) returned to his alma mater. His acclaimed exhibit, “Scarred for Life: Every Scar Tells a Story,” on display at the MAC, offers a visceral look at the intersection of medical trauma and resilience.  For Meyer, the subject matter is deeply personal. Having lived with Gaucher Disease - a rare condition affecting the bones and joints - Meyer spent 16 years documenting the physical marks left on others by accidents and illness. The exhibit features nearly 100 artistically enhanced prints taken directly from the scarred skin of his subjects, paired with photographs and the raw narratives of the survivors themselves.  During a March 9 visit with PAVE Visual Art students, Meyer spoke about the philosophy behind the ink.  “For me, the scars are their stories. Everybody has their story. The scar represents the absolute second when someone’s life changed. From that point on, their life is different, how they look at themselves is different, and sometimes how people look at them is different,” said Meyer.  “Scarred for Life” is the depiction of how scars have a lifelong impact on a person, and how they represent overcoming trauma and healing. The scars are powerful symbols of regeneration, life, and learning. Meyer’s art becomes a part of that process, beautifying the symbols of personal resilience.  By beautifying the marks of survival, Meyer’s work shifts the narrative from disfigurement to regeneration. Meyer’s visit and exhibit, which ran through March in the MAC, was made possible through the support of the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence.    Second Place at SkillsUSA: Senior Matthew Caltenco Shines in Collision Repair New Rochelle High School senior Matthew Caltenco has proven that precision and passion are a winning combination. In late February, Southern Westchester BOCES selected its best students to represent the southern region at the Skills USA Area IV Regional Competition, and Matthew excelled in the competition of students from 14 schools.   Competing in the Collision Repair Technology category, Matthew clinched a prestigious 2nd-place finish, narrowly missing the top spot.  “This program prepares you. Our instructors show you how to do hands-on work with tools and equipment that are similar to what is used in outside work,” said Caltenco. “Skills USA was a fun time. I wouldn’t have ever gotten second place without my teachers. With the knowledge that I have gained in my junior and senior years, I was confident that I would place in the top three, at least.”  And place he did. Next, Matthew will go on to represent the region at the State Championships, which will be held April 22-24 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse.  With a career in auto body work already in motion and a regional silver medal under his belt, the future looks bright for Matthew.   Unlock a Summer of Discovery: 2026 Expanded Learning Opportunities The City School District of New Rochelle is excited to share Summer 2026 Expanded Learning Opportunities, a wide range of free and low-cost summer learning, enrichment, and recreation programs available to our students and families. A partnership of the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle, New Rochelle Parks & Recreation, the New Rochelle Youth Bureau, and our school district is proud to offer programming that supports students academically, socially, and emotionally, while keeping them engaged in meaningful opportunities throughout the summer months. Explore the programs to find the best fit for your child this summer. For the most up-to-date information, registration links, and program updates, please visit the respective providers’ websites. Families are encouraged to review the program descriptions and select the opportunities that best match their child’s needs and interests for a safe, enriching, and engaging summer for students. Student Business Showcase: A Celebration of Young Entrepreneurs On Friday, Feb. 27, the Business Honor Society at New Rochelle High School hosted its second Annual Student Owned Business Showcase—a school-wide event designed to highlight the entrepreneurial spirit of our students.  Fifteen students showcased businesses selling hoodies, chocolate-covered strawberries, custom-designed press-on nails, and silk flowers, among other things. Students shared their business plans and insights into their entrepreneurial journeys. “From handcrafted goods to specialized services, the diversity of ideas on display was truly inspiring,” said Johana Sanchez, business teacher and Business Honor Society advisor. “Attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with student business owners, learning firsthand about the challenges and successes of starting and running a business. The event fostered meaningful conversations about creativity, perseverance, and the skills needed to turn an idea into reality.” The showcase displayed a wide range of student-led businesses, including apparel brands, photographers, nail technicians, baked goods, candle makers, jewelry and silk florists. Attendees had the chance to talk with these young entrepreneurs, learn about their creative processes, and gain insight into the dedication it takes to turn a passion into a profitable business. In addition to highlighting student businesses, the showcase is designed to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the high school that will inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs. “It was inspiring to see peers supporting one another, exchanging ideas, and even networking for future collaborations,” Sanchez said. “The enthusiasm and engagement from both presenters and attendees made this event a resounding success.” Sanchez said she wanted to thank the student business owners, Business Honor Society students, attendees, and supporters who helped make the event possible. Business teachers were also critical to the success of the fair.  Learning Expo Explores Black History In celebration of the 100th Anniversary of Black History Month, the New Rochelle High School Library hosted its 2026 Black History Month Learning Expo on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 25 and 26.  This year’s Learning Expo focused on the “Life and Ideas of Malcolm X,” one of the most influential figures of the Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm X played a key role in expanding the knowledge and practice of the Islamic faith in the United States. His seminal literary work, “The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley,” was named by Time Magazine as one of the 10 most influential nonfiction books of the 20th Century.  The Learning Expo highlighted the life of Malcolm X through a series of learning stations that encouraged students to read excerpts from his autobiography, view videos of his narration, and explore the sociological factors that informed Malcolm’s ideology over the course of his life. Malcolm X would have celebrated his 100th birthday last May. Earlier this month, Ilyasah Shabazz, the award-winning author and daughter of Malcolm X, visited New Rochelle High School where she spoke about growing up as a child of Malcolm and Betty Shabazz. She discussed her father’s legacy in a talk sponsored by the Greater Hudson Valley Chapter of The Links Inc., a community service organization. Isaac E. Young Middle School Teacher Honored Angela Carrasquillo, Isaac E. Young Middle School media teacher, recently received a TELL Award from the Lower Hudson Regional Information Center for being an innovative instructional technology teacher. The award was presented at the annual Technology in Education through Leadership and Learning Event at the Edith Macy Conference Center in Briarcliff on March 16. The event allows other technology teachers to celebrate and learn from leaders who transform education. “This award is incredibly meaningful to me because it represents more than just recognition—it reflects the journey of building something that truly gives students a voice,” said Carrasquillo. “When I created my Media Technology classes, my goal was never just to teach students how to use cameras, microphones, or editing software. It was to create a space where they could discover who they are, what they care about, and how to express that in powerful, authentic ways.” In Carrasquillo’s Media Technology classes, students are given numerous opportunities to better understand the world around them. During the Digital Citizenship PSA project, students research real issues and create powerful public service announcements that promote safe, responsible, empathetic digital behavior. In the Advertising unit, the students explore branding, target audiences, and persuasive techniques by developing their own ad campaigns. Through Storytelling Through Sound, the students craft original audio pieces, using voice, sound effects, and music to tell meaningful stories that connect with listeners.  “From our ‘All About Me’ multimedia projects to these deeper, real-world applications, my classroom is a space where student voice drives learning and creativity fuels engagement. This award recognizes not just innovation, but the impact of giving students the tools, confidence, and platform to create, communicate, and be heard,” Carrasquillo said.  In her acceptance speech at the awards event, Carrasquillo thanked the City School District of New Rochelle leadership, including Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Olivine Roberts, Isaac E. Young Middle School Principal Dr. Tawanda Robinson, and Assistant Principals Plinio A Trujillo and Robert “John” Van Dunk for championing innovation and empowering teachers. Barnard, Webster Staff Granted Tenure Congratulations to six newly tenured staff at Henry Barnard School. The six were lauded at the March 12 Board of Education meeting held at their school. They are Teaching Assistant Christina Cioppa, Teacher Daisy Corona, Reading Teacher Nancy Ebrech-Mack, Teaching Assistant Evelyn Hernandez, Teacher Nancy Semenza, and Assistant Principal Malikh Ifill. Kudos to all!  Left to right: Assistant Principal Malikh Ifill, Christina Cioppa, Nancy Ebrech-Mack, Evelyn Hernandez, Nancy Semenza, Daisy Corona, Principal Shelli Owens Congratulations to the following Daniel Webster Elementary School teachers who were recently granted tenure, having proven their exceptional skill and dedication to our students. They were honored at the March 17 Board of Education meeting. Congratulations to all of you! Left to right: Principal Melissa Passarelli, Sarah Chickery, Eileen Goldberg, Valentina Gjidoda, and Amy Cosentino, Assistant Principal Gregory Middleton   New ParentSquare Feature Available There is a new update to our communication platform! Starting March 27, 2026, we are rolling out the Class Enrollment View in ParentSquare. This feature is designed to give you a clearer window into your student’s learning environment. This update provides a simplified list of every course your student is attending during the current school year or term. You can double-check a course name or identify which teachers are connected to your child using this tool. What you’ll see at a glance: Elementary (Pre-K–Grade 3): Homeroom and CAMPEL classes. Elementary (Grades 4–5): Homeroom, Math, ELA, and CAMPEL classes. Secondary: A full list of active courses (e.g., Algebra I, World History, Biology Lab). Teacher Connections: Quickly confirm which educators are linked to your student within the ParentSquare app. It is important to note that this feature is a Class List, not a daily schedule. To keep things simple and secure within ParentSquare, specific logistical details are not included here. Please Note: This view will not display class periods, specific times of day, or room numbers. For your student’s detailed daily schedule, please continue to use Home Access Center as your primary resource. Follow these simple steps starting March 27: Log in to your ParentSquare account (on the web or via the mobile app). Navigate to the "Student Info" section. Select the "Classes/Enrollment" tab to see the list. We hope this added visibility helps you feel even more connected to your student's academic journey. Athletics   Boys Lacrosse Team Scores Big for Inclusion Photo by William Moscowitz-Urbas The New Rochelle Varsity Boys Lacrosse team this past weekend made an impact off the field as well as on. The team participated in the ABLE Athletics Lacrosse Scrimmage hosted by the Lakeland/Panas team. The March 21 event promoted disability inclusion in sports. ABLE Athletics is a nonprofit focused on breaking down barriers and providing sports opportunities for athletes of all abilities. The team had a strong showing on the field, but made an even bigger mark off the field by raising more than $400 to support youth sports opportunities for students. The funds go directly to removing financial or physical barriers to youth participation in organized sports. The team's top goal scorers were Jeremiah Fosu and Alex Orozco. Leon Yu played a solid defense against the offensive threats. Congratulations team and Coach Jordan Woo! Check out all the great community events happening now! Click For Community Events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, Mar 26 2026

News from Our Schools: March 12, 2026

News from Our Schools March 12, 2026 Four New Rochelle High School Seniors Advance to National Merit Finals L to R: Ian McCloskey, Paxton Rogove, Cory Seelenfreund, Regina Teran Photo credit: Ryan Paulsen Photography All four New Rochelle High School seniors named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists last September have advanced to Finalist standing in the competition and will be considered for National Merit Scholarship Awards.  Ian McCloskey, Paxton Rogove, Cory Seelenfreund, and Regina Teran are among an elite 15,000 academically talented students nationwide who are under consideration for one of 6,870 Merit Scholarships totaling $26 million. The scholarship awards will be announced soon.   “I’m incredibly honored and grateful to be named a National Merit Finalist. I'm so thankful for the immense support I have received from my teachers, family, and friends who encouraged me along the way - it could not have been possible without all of them,” said Seelenfreund. “I’m super excited to keep learning and exploring new opportunities!” "I'm very happy to be named a National Merit Scholarship Finalist! It's amazing to see my work pay off, and I'm very happy to represent New Rochelle High School by being named. I want to thank the faculty and staff at New Rochelle High School for creating a learning environment conducive to my scoring highly, and my family for supporting me every step of the way.” The four Finalists were selected from 1.3 million juniors in 20,000 high schools who entered the NMSP when they took the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test in 2024. They represent less than one percent of high school seniors nationwide.  Congratulations, Finalists!  Robotics Team Heads to State Competition One New Rochelle Robotics Team will head to the state competition at Kennedy Catholic Preparatory School in Somers on March 14, where they will compete for a spot at the World Championships. The junior team comprises Daniel Goncalves, Vincent Chen, Noor Abdalla, Penelope Conway, Paul Gallagher, and Cesar Hernandez. The team qualified for state competition through its performance at a regional competition at the Harvey School on Feb. 15. Junior Noor Abdalla said the team’s progress has been a remarkable journey to the State competition this weekend.  "Watching our team improve has been incredible. We climbed 33 places and 23 regional skills rankings since the NRHS competition. Our performance reassured me that dedication paves the road to success. Seeing that kind of rapid growth inspired me to work even more diligently," he said. The team’s competition was made possible by support from the New Rochelle Fund for Excellence and the New Rochelle High School PTSA. Best of luck to the team!!  A Slam Dunk Celebration! Trinity's Black History Month Family Fun Night In an incredible evening of movement, memory, and magic, Trinity Elementary School's gymnasium was abuzz Feb. 26 as the school community gathered to celebrate Black History Month through the lens of athletic excellence. The Trinity PTA event focused on trailblazers who broke barriers and redefined the world of sports. But students did not just read about the history—they stepped into it! With Committee Chair Amanda Moody leading the way, the PTA transformed the gym into a series of high-energy interactive stations. Students rotated through each area, mastering new skills and discovering the legacies of true icons, including: Arthur Ashe (Tennis) Jackie Robinson (Baseball) George Franklin Grant (Golf) Bubba Wallace (Racing) Toni Stone, Connie Morgan, and Mamie “Peanut” Johnson (Women’s Negro League Baseball) PTA President Brooke Mueller said, "It was a night where history truly came to life. Seeing the students connect perseverance in sports to their own movements in the gym was a beautiful thing to witness." Third grade teacher Mrs. Quinn added to the fun with a coding activity, and several teachers proudly showcased their students' Black History Month projects and artwork. NRHS BHM Read-In On Feb. 27, the New Rochelle High School English Department proudly hosted its fifth annual African American Read-In in the Whitney Auditorium. Rooted in the National Council of Teachers of English African American Read-In initiative, the event honors the legacy of Black writers while connecting to the spirit of the Civil Rights Movement sit-ins, which were moments when young people gathered peacefully to claim space, dignity, and voice. In that same tradition, students came together to uplift literature as a form of affirmation and empowerment. Dedicated to the joys of the Black experience, this year’s Read-In invited students to read their own original poems inspired by literary giants such as Maya Angelou, Sonia Sanchez, Lucille Clifton, and James Weldon Johnson. Through their writing, students celebrated beauty, resilience, creativity, faith, humor, and pride—capturing the richness and vibrancy of Black life in their own authentic voices. The event also provided an opportunity to recognize four seniors who have participated in the African American Read-In throughout their high school careers: Harmony Hopwood, Justina Carter, Isaac Evans, and Miles Pamplin De Irish. Reflecting on the experience, 10th grader Sayra Lopez shared, “The best part of the African American Read-In was just sharing the love for poetry and being able to share our voices and the creativity we have.” The program opened with a powerful student choir rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing and closed with a student-choreographed dance, elevating the event to a new level of artistry and celebration. English Department Chair Lydia Adegbola said, “This was a remarkable display of excellence from both our teachers and our students. Every year I say it cannot get any better, and every year they prove me wrong. What they created on that stage was truly special.” Thank you to all the teachers who brought their classes, and to Ms. Knott and Ms. Thompson for organizing such a meaningful tribute.   Best-Selling Author Visits Webster Elementary Growing up, Gale Galligan loved reading and drawing comics. But they had no idea that creating comics could be a profession. Now a New York Times best-selling cartoonist and graphic novelist, Galligan loves to share the joys of their job with today’s young students.  During a Feb. 27 visit to Daniel Webster Elementary School, Galligan demonstrated how they draw a character, talked about the art of cartooning and gave students a preview of their latest book, “Fresh Start.” Students also participated in an Author’s Luncheon and had the chance to get their books signed by Galligan. “Gale was spunky, fun and highly interactive during her presentation,” said Lauren Price, library media/reading specialist.”She was a natural with students and kept them fully engaged throughout the visit.” Galligan, who holds a masters degree in Sequential Art, is the author of four Baby-Sitters Club graphic novels, and two books about middle schoolers, “Fresh Start,” and “Freestyle.” They are passionate about the many ways in which comics can broaden our understanding of the world and help us to critically view the media. Plus, they said, comics are fun.  Price said Galligan was chosen for an author visit because so many Webster students enjoy graphic novels, especially “The Baby-Sitters Club.” She added that “author visits are important because they inspire students to tell stories, read more deeply, write creatively and express themselves through art.” Galligan was a hit with Webster students. “I liked how it was so interactive,” said Kissarah Clarke. Students were impressed with how much time Galligan spent with each of them when signing their books. They were most surprised by how much work goes into developing a graphic novel and they loved seeing Galligan draw characters in front of the class.    “I liked when Gale showed the process of cartooning – outlining, writing and drawing,” said Conor Plunkett.  Muslim History Exhibit at NRHS Library A traveling exhibit on America’s Muslim History recently arrived at New Rochelle High School, allowing students to explore the West African roots, military service and modern contributions of Muslim people.  The exhibit, which was at the high school library on Feb. 5 and 6, was presented by the American Islamic Heritage Museum and made possible by the American Muslim Women’s Association. It was visited by social studies classes throughout the two days and featured photos and information about early settlers, explorers, the African diaspora, and African American Muslim history. Amir N. Muhammad, president, co-founder and curator of the museum, is an internationally recognized historian, researcher, author, and poet. He has said that the museum’s exhibits are designed to help communities learn, connect, and build understanding. The exhibit, entitled “Forgotten Roots,” showcases the history, culture, and contributions of Muslims in America through curated displays of historical artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia. Key items include newspaper clippings, letters from prominent figures, and interactive, multimedia presentations documenting early Muslim settlers, the slave trade, and modern American Muslim life.  Among other things, it includes references to notable figures such as Yarrow Mamout, a Guinean freedman, entrepreneur and property owner in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.; and Omar ibn Said. Said, who was born into a wealthy West African family, was captured and sold into slavery in his 30s during a military conflict. Omar wrote his autobiography in Arabic, the only such work written by an enslaved person in his native language. Photos, official documents and narrative explanations highlighted Muslim women in American history, Muslim mayors and elected officials, Muslims in the military, Muslims in the judicial system, and Muslims in American Sports. The museum also makes note of several towns with Islamic names including Mahomet, Illinois; Mahomet, Texas; Mecca, Indiana; and Elkader, Iowa. Lego League Competition Trinity third graders Dominico Petrini and Isaiah Irwin placed third and won the Best Innovation Award at the FIRST Lego League Hudson Valley Championship on Feb. 7 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y. As a result of their outstanding performance, Domenico and Isaiah have qualified to compete in the American Robotics Open Championship in June, which brings together top-performing teams from across the U.S. and around the world. The students earned the Best Innovation Award for the depth of their research and clarity of their thinking. This year’s UNEARTHED™ theme challenged teams to identify a real problem faced by archaeologists and propose a research-based solution.  “They walked judges through how they researched cave archaeology, identified two core risks — unstable rock formations and unsafe air quality — and developed a rover concept equipped with environmental sensors to address those dangers,” said Barath. “Their idea was grounded in real research and directly aligned with the problem they chose to solve. For such a young team competing alongside many older students, their clarity and depth of reasoning made a strong impression,” Barath said.  For the young problem solvers, the competition was inspiring.  “I really enjoyed working together with my teammates to learn new things and solve hard challenges,” said Domenico. “I loved presenting our project, and I tried my best to stay calm and handle the pressure during our robot match so we could score high.” For his part, Isaiah found the presentation the most challenging.  "The hardest part was the presentation because I had to talk in front of judges I didn’t know, and I was a little nervous. The most fun part was watching our robot finish the missions we worked really hard on building and coding. It was so exciting when it worked!" Barath said the team was especially grateful to third-grade teacher, Ann Marie Manganiello, who played an instrumental mentoring role. “She coached the boys,helping them rehearse their presentation, and building their confidence along the way. Her guidance truly mattered,” Barath said.  FIRST LEGO League helps students build real-world skills at an early age. They research complex problems, evaluate information, interview experts, and turn what they learn into practical solutions. At the same time, they design and program an autonomous robot to compete in timed 2.5-minute matches.  Congratulations, Columbus Tenured Teachers! L to R: Michael Galland, Principal; Maritsa Valencia, Teaching Assistant; Alicia Parrino, Fourth Grade Teacher; Christina Araque, Special Education Teacher; Francis Cruz, Assistant Principal; Alexis Candelario, English as a New Language Teacher; Sebastian Arango, Second Grade Teacher; Mike McGowan, Fifth Grade Teacher At the Feb. 26 Board of Education meeting, eight outstanding educational professionals from Columbus Elementary School were honored for achieving tenure. They are: Alexis Candelario - English as a New Language Christina Araque - Special Education  Mike McGowen - 5th Grade Alicia Parrino - 4th Grade  Sebastian Arango - 2nd Grade  Maritsa Valencia - Special Education Teaching Assistant  Ashley Ramirez - School Psychologist  Francis Cruz - Assistant Principal Congratulations, all! NRHS Sophomore Named Moroccan Junior National Figure Skating Champion New Rochelle High School sophomore Lilia Hafid has been named the Moroccan Junior National Figure Skating Champion for her outstanding performances at the Open du Maroc 2026 in February. “We congratulate Lilia on her remarkable achievement, recognizing that her success reflects her hard work, unwavering dedication, countless hours of practice, and a commitment to excellence as both a devoted student and an accomplished athlete,” said New Rochelle High School Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artiles. A Moroccan-American, Lilia was invited to compete by the head of the Moroccan Association of Ice Sports. The event, held at the Mega Mall Ice Rink in Rabat, Morocco,on Feb 13 through 15, featured rhythmic/short programs and free skating for multiple levels including juniors. Asked how it felt to win first place, Lilia said, “Amazing! I had never won like that before, and to have won in Morocco, with my family there to celebrate, was an incredible experience. It felt so good to have my hard work validated. It was also a huge relief to be done after months of intensive training.”  Lilia began working on her programs in September at the same time that she was preparing a routine for the Empire State Winter Games in New York. A skater for the past nine years, Lilia began her journey with a learn-to-skate class at Hammocks Park Ice Rink in Mamaroneck. Judges at the Moroccan event gave Lilia the highest marks for artistry and presentation, something she credits to her skating coach, Linda Villella; Christine Coleman at the Coleman School of Dance; and Julie Preston at the PAVE program at the high school. “They all encouraged me this year to tap into the artistic side of skating, which gave me an edge over the other competitors,” Lilia said. Although it was her first time competing in Morocco, it was not the first time she had been skating there. Lilia, whose father is Moroccan, spends summers in Casablanca with her family. To keep up with her training, she said she began working with a coach there a few years ago. Lilia’s mom was thrilled to share her daughter’s success. “It was such an amazing experience. I am beside myself with joy for my daughter,” said Molly Schultz Hafid. All in all, it was an incredible experience for Lilia. “I loved the hard work and the reward. I also made wonderful friends in the Moroccan skating community,” she said.”It was incredible to have so much support on and off the ice. I can’t wait to get back, see everyone, and continue training this summer.”   Sights and Sounds from Around the District Trinity Elementary Artwork Travels to Albany for Black History Month Exhibit at Empire State Plaza A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Community! We are still floating on air after the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence Gala! Thank you to all members of our school community who supported the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence gala. Your incredible generosity and support will provide inspiring arts and enrichment programs to ensure that every student in New Rochelle has the tools to dream big and achieve even bigger. Pictured: String quartet Penelope Conway, Adriana Valencia, Christian Sanchez, and Enzo Confalone New Rochelle High School Principal, Dr. Dagoberto Artiles; Science and Technology Awardee Cory Seelenfreund; Arts and Culture Awardee Harmony Hopwood; David A. Garfinkel Citizenship Awardee Kyra Mulraine; Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. Not picutred: Eric Tutera Sports Leadership Awardee Samuel Cave. Master of Ceremonies Shannon LaNier with New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence Executive Director Anne Todd Distinguished Public Service Award Kelly Johnson, Jr. NRHS '76 Distinguished Alumni Award New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence Executive Director Anne Todd, George Hirsch, NRHS '52, and New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence Board of Directors Chair Laurie Forkas New Rochelle High School Jazz Ensemble New Rochelle High School Chorus Athletics   Sam Cave Sets New School Record, Finishes 9th in Freestyle Congratulations to swimmer Sam Cave, a senior who had an outstanding performance at last weekend's New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHAA) swim and dive championships.  Sam swam both the 50- and 100-yard freestyle events and qualified for finals in both. He finished an impressive 9th in the federation in the 50-yard freestyle, setting a new school record in the event.  Unfortunately, Sam was unable to be honored in person for receiving the Eric Tutera Sports Leadership Award at the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence gala, but made up for it with an incredible performance at States. Sam will continue his swim and academic career at American University in Washington, D.C. Congratulations, Sam!   Elementary Girls Basketball Ward 21, Webster 1 Ward 40, Columbus 2 The Ward girls basketball team was undefeated in the regular season. Congratulations, Wolves! Championship Games Saturday, March 14 Girls city title 3:30 p.m. Boys city title 5:00 p.m. Good luck, athletes! Come and Cheer On Our Pioneers! Hudson Valley Regional Basketball Tournament Saturday, March 14, at New Rochelle High School Gym, 9:00 a.m. Lady Huguenots and Jr. Huguenot Boys Impress at Tri-County Basketball Championships Lady Huguenots The Lady Huguenots 7th grade team beat Scarsdale 42-37 in the semi-finals to advance to the Tri-County Championship game. In the finals, they faced an undefeated Bronxville team in a highly contested game that went back and forth. New Rochelle's Faith Ziogas hit some timely 3-point shots to keep the game close., but the girls unfortunately lost 47-40. Despite the final game, it has been a great season for our New Ro girls. Jr. Huguenot Boys The 7th grade Jr. Huguenot Boys basketball team played in the championship game in the Tri-County Basketball League, leading the game from beginning to end to beat Hastings 50-40. The boys finished the season at 17-1.  Amari Richardson, Nicholas Brown, and AJ Godfrey led the Jr. Huguenots to victory as they did all season. Congratulations boys! Check out all the great community events happening now! Click here for community events  Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, Mar 12 2026

News from Our Schools: February 26, 2026

News from Our Schools February 26, 2026 Crino is Section 1 Champ - Headed to States New Rochelle High School junior and standout wrestler Matteo Crino dominated the Section 1 Division 1 Boys’ Wrestling Championships February 6-8 and walked away with the top honor in his 132-pound weight class. In the final match, Crino pinned Clarkstown North’s Alex Perez to win. The victory was especially sweet after finishing in second place last year.  “I came into the match as I came into this season: knowing I had to stay focused and calm. Last year taught me what I had to do to win in the finals. I wanted the win badly, and I’m thankful to my teammates and my coaches for supporting me through the season to get to this place,” said Crino.  The coaching staff was happy to see Crino achieve his goal after a season filled with highs and lows.  “His persistence is a testament to his character and work ethic,” said coach Eddie Ortiz. “A four-year varsity starter and now a four-time All-Section wrestler, Matteo has continued to finish higher each season—sixth as an eighth grader, fourth as a freshman, second as a sophomore, and now Section One champion as a junior.” Crino’s focus now is the New York State Championships, which will take place at the MVP Arena in Albany on February 27 and 28. Go, Matteo! We’re all so proud of you!  High School Students Make Their Cases at Model UN Conference A team of 20 New Rochelle High School students participated in the 25th annual Boston University Model United Nations Conference (BosMUN) Feb. 6 to 8, joining about 3,000 delegates from around the world. This program was sponsored by the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence. Freshman Samantha Aisner received a Diplomatic Commendation award from the three-day conference. The New Rochelle Model UN members participated in a variety of committees, engaging in debates to get their resolutions passed. Samantha represented San Marino in the UNESCO committee, arguing about the impacts of tourism on world heritage sites. In advance of the Model UN conference, students are assigned a country and a committee and prepare to present a position paper, role-playing how the country would handle that committee. They meet with the committees, in which students from other schools represent multiple countries, and work together to solve the issue at hand. At the end of the weekend, a resolution is approved and passed by the committee and the moderating board. "I believe Model UN is extremely valuable to our students,” said social studies teacher Francisco Sandoval, who advises the Model UN Club with Alexis Velez, also a social studies teacher. “It teaches them how to work in collaboration to solve the world's problems and creates confident speakers who will advocate for their ideas. We know our students will use these skills well beyond their time here at Model UN,” Sandoval added. The students agree. “Model UN has strengthened my public speaking abilities and broadened my understanding of global politics and international affairs," said senior and Club Co-President Charlotte Fusco. "My time at New Rochelle High School wouldn't have been the same without the amazing Model UN community."  Senior and Club Co-President Mollie Aisner said, "Model UN gave me confidence in public speaking, collaboration, and problem solving. I am so grateful for all the people I have met through this club and the experiences that we had together!"  The Model UN Club meets every Thursday at New Rochelle High School in room 367. Micahia Simpkins Honored New Rochelle High School student Micahia Simpkins was recognized earlier this month by the Westchester County Youth Service Board for her leadership, resilience and dedication to uplifting others. “Known for her humility, compassion, and dedication to uplifting others, Micahia has consistently used her talents to make a positive impact on her school and community,” said School Counselor Maria Nunez, who nominated Micahia. “She has challenged herself academically while also leading initiatives that empower youth and strengthen her community.” Micahia’s achievement is noteworthy because this year the Youth Board received the highest number of nominations in its history. She was one of 12 students recognized at a ceremony on Feb. 12 at the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains.  Micahia co-founded her school’s first Black Student Leadership Conference, coordinated workshops on literacy and social justice, and presented at the Girls Leadership Conference, inspiring younger students to pursue their goals while balancing academic achievement and emotional well-being. As Co-President of HOSA, an organization of future healthcare professionals, she organized one of the most successful blood drives at her school, motivating more than 200 students and faculty to donate. She is a member of the leadership group, My Sister Keep Her, and helps to coordinate school-wide activities and events for minority students. A self-starter, Micahia is always looking for ways to enrich her school experiences. For example, to expand her knowledge outside the classroom, she attended The Future Doctors Summer Program offered by Harvard Student Agencies in 2022. The program introduced her to pre-medical studies. To gain clinical experience, she independently secured a shadowing position with a local pediatrician. At school, Micahia is a member of the competitive PAVE Dance program; a member of the National, French, Math, and Science Honor Societies; a peer tutor; and a member of the Varsity Cheerleading team. She is also a member of the Leadership Group, My Sister Keep Her, and volunteers at the New York Covenant Church.  The Youth Board recognition was not the first honor Micahia has received. In 2025, Micahia received the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Youth Vision Award. She also received the Youth Passion Social Justice Project Award for her innovation and community impact.  Kids4Tech Makes Scientists Out of Fourth Graders at Webster Fourth graders at Webster Elementary School had the chance to explore STEM careers such as cryptologist, fraud detective, data scientist, and design engineer at the Kids4Tech event held on Feb. 11. The event, made possible by Mastercard with support from Iona University students, featured hands-on STEM activities such as decoding information, learning about evolving technology, and collecting and analyzing data. The event takes complex, adult subjects and breaks them down into language and activities that young students can understand. For example, to understand how technology has evolved, students were exposed to the ways that music has been captured and played from vinyl records to cassette tapes to compact discs (CDs) to digital files that can be played on a phone or computer. That illustration serves as an introduction to binary code, the programming language that enables phones and computers to perform many functions.  To learn about data, students talked about the weather: What is it like outside today? Is it cold or hot? Is it raining or snowing? The answers to these questions, they were told, are data. That data can help solve problems, such as what type of clothing should be worn.  “I loved that the students were exposed to real-world applications of so many different STEM concepts,” said fourth grade teacher Melissa Landau. “In addition, many of the activities were directly connected to our curriculum and provided students with hands-on connections to help make their understanding more concrete. For example, in reading, we had recently learned about the Navajo code talkers, and in science, we are in the midst of a unit on sound waves.” It was the fifth time Kids4Tech, formerly Girls4Tech, has been held at Webster Elementary. Approximately 70 fourth graders attended the 90-minute event, which was run by Mastercard employees and about 10 Iona University students. Students were impressed. “I liked the coding station and how to send messages. It was fun to figure out what each code meant,” said fourth grader West Guermann, adding that the event made him even more interested in STEM-related fields. Kids4Tech has reached millions of students in 65 countries across the globe, allowing students to discover how their strengths and skills could be used in STEM careers. The program’s mission is to find the next generation of problem solvers and creative thinkers.  TheaterWorks Presents “Firebringer” On March 12, 13, and 14, New Rochelle High School TheaterWorks will present “Firebringer,” an uproarious musical comedy set in the Stone Age and featuring two life-size puppets. The show depicts humanity’s discovery of fire. It follows Jemilla, a skeptical tribal leader, and Zazzalil, a curious and rebellious young inventor, as they clash over the new, dangerous, and powerful technology. “This show represents the collaborative artistry of so many of our students,” said Anthony Stirpe, ELA/PAVE teacher and director of the production. “Their work extends far beyond performance and showcases leadership, design, and creative vision across grade levels.” The show also discusses mature ideas of blind faith, authoritarian power, and human destruction. Younger viewers can appreciate messages of togetherness, standing up for yourself, and the importance of working hard.  New Rochelle alum and professional puppeteer Sam Kendall taught students how to design and build life-size puppets – a woolly mammoth and a sabre-toothed tiger – for the show. The students were hands-on in the process, learning fabrication techniques and performance skills. Kendall trained with Jim Henson and has worked professionally with Sherri Shepherd, Busy Phillips, and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” He spent weeks working with students to bring the show’s puppets to life. The show rests on the creativity and leadership of students, including: Junior Julianna LoPresti, who assisted with choreography. Senior Gabby Cohen, who helped with staging. Seniors Isabella Simmons and Justina Carter, who designed many of the costumes audiences will see on stage. Stirpe calls the show “truly hysterical” but notes that it is rated PG13 for language. A free dress rehearsal performance will be held for faculty and staff on March 9 at 4 p.m. Showtimes are March 12 at 7 p.m.; March 13 at 7 p.m.; March 14 at 1 p.m.; and March 14 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $17 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. NRHS Orchestra Plays with the Pros Students in the New Rochelle High School Symphonic Orchestra had the chance to perform live, side-by-side with professional musicians in the Symphony of Westchester at Iona University on Feb. 1. The performance of the " Finale " movement of Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings, was made possible through support of the local community. New Rochelle students brought months of preparation to the collaboration. “The partnership provided students with firsthand insight into the discipline, musicianship, and teamwork required at the professional level,” said PAVE Orchestra Director Claire Stancarone. “Performing side-by-side with experienced musicians challenged students to listen more deeply, play with greater confidence, and rise to a higher standard of excellence.” The students clearly benefited from the experience. “Playing with a professional boosted my confidence because it instilled within me that we all contain the potential to play at their level,” said one student. “However, it did open my eyes to challenges and issues I should fix with my playing, such as tone, bow usage, and musicality.” Another student commented on the power of music to unite. “(I) was looking around and seeing how much the music connected us all. Although we were all different ages, it was incredible to see how music was able to bring everyone together and allow for some of us to meet some very talented people.”   Prior to the performance, Maestro Barry Charles Hoffman, founder and artistic director of the Symphony of Westchester, had three separate rehearsals with the PAVE orchestra at New Rochelle High School, and then rehearsed the NRHS orchestra with the Symphony of Westchester for one rehearsal before the concert. The orchestra was arranged so that most student musicians sat next to their professional counterparts for both rehearsal and concert.   Maestro Hoffman has a special relationship with the New Rochelle Public Schools, as he was a strings teacher in Webster, Trinity, and Jefferson Elementary Schools from 1984 to 1986. He proudly noted that he both introduced and taught Stancarone to play the cello when she was in third grade. Maestro Hoffman said he looks forward to more collaborations with New Rochelle students in the future. Click below to see the performance. New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence Announces 2026 Gala Honorees George A. Hirsch, Kelly Johnson, Jr., and Eric Turkewitz will be honored at the New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence 2026 Gala, an evening that brings the community together to celebrate inspiring people, public education, and the spirit of New Rochelle. The annual fundraising gala will take place on Thursday, March 5, at 6:30 p.m. at the Surf Club on the Sound, and will honor two distinguished New Rochelle High School alumni and a dedicated community leader whose work has helped shape and elevate our city. Hirsch, a 1952 New Rochelle High School graduate, is a legendary figure in the running world and a proud New Rochelle native. A U.S. Navy veteran, magazine publisher, and lifelong runner, Hirsch was a founder of the New York City Marathon and a longtime leader of New York Road Runners. Over decades, he has championed inclusion, youth participation, and the joy of sport — sharing his passion through writing, broadcasting, and community engagement. Johnson, a 1976 New Rochelle High School graduate, has devoted more than four decades to serving the young people of New Rochelle. Beginning his career with the New Rochelle Youth Bureau in 1979, he has served as its Executive Director since 1992, expanding opportunities in sports, education, and career readiness. A mentor, coach, and civic leader, Johnson is widely respected for his lifelong commitment to empowering youth and strengthening the community he calls home. Turkewitz is an attorney, runner, and community builder whose work has connected people across New Rochelle and Westchester — both literally and figuratively. He played a key role in creating the Colonial Greenway trail system and founded the Paine to Pain Trail Half Marathon, which supports local parks and trails. Through civic leadership, youth sports, and volunteer advocacy, Turkewitz continues to give back to the community in meaningful ways. The honorees will be celebrated alongside the Fund’s Class of 2026 Student Achievement Award recipients, who exemplify excellence across disciplines: Harmony Hopwood, Arts and Culture Award Kyra Mulraine, David A. Garfinkel Citizenship Award Sam Cave, Eric Tutera Sports Leadership Award Cory Seelenfreund, Science and Technology Award “The Gala is really about connection — between generations, between our schools and the broader community, and between the people who believe deeply in public education,” said Laurie Forkas, Chair of the Fund’s Board of Directors. “It’s a joyful night that celebrates what’s possible when a community shows up for its students.” The NR Fund Gala celebrates the excellence of New Rochelle’s public schools while raising vital support for grants and student programs, including Afterschool Chess, Poetry Out Loud, the Civics Fair, the Museum of Arts and Culture, SAT Prep, and many more initiatives that enrich learning across the district. The celebration will be emceed by Emmy Award–winning media personality Shannon LaNier, a proud parent of three students in our schools. Tickets and more information about the March 5 celebration are available at www.nredfund.org. Sights and Sounds from Around the District   Read Aloud Day at Ward   Davis Unity Day and Spirit Week Students at Davis Elementary School celebrated Unity Day and school spirit earlier this month. As a follow-up, they learned about problem-solving. Students focused on stopping and thinking before acting, using words to solve problems, finding more than one solution to a problem, asking for help, staying calm when it's hard, and solving problems fairly, among other important life lessons.   Staff Appreciation Students in the New Rochelle High School S.A.I.L. culinary program spread some love with a staff brunch for employees at the district administrative offices on February 11. The students prepared and served food, and gave each attendee a red carnation to show their appreciation. Thank you, S.A.I.L. students! Athletics Freshman Boys Basketball Undefeated! Congratulations to the Freshman Boys Basketball team on an undefeated season! The 14-0 season ended with a dramatic comeback win over Mamaroneck. After being down 21-16 at the half, they rallied and won with a final score of 47-41. Great job! The season's final games also included these wins: New Rochelle 71, Horace Greeley 43 New Rochelle 66, Eastchester 21 Varsity Wrestling Sectionals Matteo Crino Section 1 Championship at 132 pounds State Championships Enrique Garcia 6th place at 165 pounds All-Section Boys Varsity Basketball Congratulations! Fynn Bowman, Guard, named All-League and All-Class Bryce Seward, Guard, named All-League and All-Section New Rochelle 59, White Plains 36 New Rochelle 73, Ramapo 36 New Rochelle 46, Mount Vernon 63 Junior Varsity Boys Basketball The Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Team also had a great season, finishing with a 15-2 record! New Rochelle 64, White Plains 42  New Rochelle 61, Mount Vernon 54 Varsity Girls Basketball New Rochelle 67, White Plains 46 New Rochelle 47, Mamaroneck 58 Grabel and Chiu Representing on Green Wave New Rochelle High School freshman Layla Grabel and sophomore Chloe Chiu were part of the Section 1 Championship Green Wave Girls Hockey Team. Congratulations, girls, and to the entire East Green Wave team! Modified Ice Hockey New Rochelle 9, Corlandt 3 Varsity Cheer Finishes 11th in the Nation for Small Coed D1 Game Day Boys Basketball Senior Night Varsity Swimming Boys Varsity Swim had an outstanding night February 10, wrapping up sectionals. Ben Fusco, Mac Bach and Sam Cave, swam their fastest 200 free relay, placing 6th overall. Mac Bach had his fastest swims in the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke, placing in the top ten of the section. Sam Cave qualified for New York State competition in the 50 and 100 free, swimming personal bests. Congratulations to all! Check out all the great community events happening now! Click Here for Community Events  Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Thursday, Feb 26 2026

News from Our Schools: February 6, 2026

News from Our Schools February 6, 2026 Food Waste Initiative Kicks Off at Trinity Elementary It’s a messy job, but someone has to do it! Fifth graders at Trinity Elementary sorted through lunchroom waste as part of a district-wide initiative aimed at reducing waste, alleviating hunger, and maximizing the use of resources. The initiative is a collaboration between the Green Schools Committee and the Children's Environmental Literacy Foundation, made possible by a grant from the New York State Pollution Prevention Institute. The first session of food waste monitoring took place at Trinity Elementary on Jan. 23, with additional sessions on Feb. 4 and Feb. 5. Students wore gloves and sorted waste by category: uneaten and unopened foods, fruit and vegetable scraps, other food scraps, non-organic waste (plastics and drink cartons), and liquids. After each session, the waste was weighed by category. The students also conducted interviews to gather data on why food items were discarded. Other food waste labs will be held during the next four to six weeks at Davis Elementary, Jefferson Elementary, Ward Elementary, and Columbus Elementary Schools, the middle schools, and the high school. The Green Schools Committee will process the findings and develop a plan to reduce lunchroom waste across the district. “All of us are part of the solution. By participating in this, we’re helping not only our school, but our entire school community,” said Trinity Principal Michael Hilderbrand. “We’re going to use the data we collect to reduce food waste right here at Trinity Elementary School.” The job was a bit messy for the sorters, but fifth grader Liliana Brooks said it was worth the effort. “It was pretty gross. People were throwing out food where nothing was touched, and some of it had no bites taken out,” she said. “But it’s important to prevent food waste from happening to make the world a better place.” Fifth graders are learning about the effects of food waste on the environment. Olivia Renda, grade five, said, “I like how it helps the environment, and it helps decrease food waste. Food waste creates pollution and increases climate change.” Davon Vernon, another sorter, was focused on the way excess food could help others. “We want to help out kids that don’t have enough to eat, so they can eat good food and have lots of healthy stuff,” he said. “The first time we did this, people threw away a lot of food, and a lot of food (went to the share table). But now people are eating it because they realize they can take (the food from the share table).” New Rochelle Alum and Celebrated Artist Returns to Inspire Today’s Students Luis M. Diaz, a New Rochelle alum and Mexican-born visual artist whose work has appeared in “The Nation,” “The Atlantic,” and “The New Yorker,” returned to his alma mater recently, where he spoke to art students about his career, his journey as an immigrant, and his artwork. Diaz’s visit was combined with a solo exhibit of the photographs he created for his master’s thesis at Yale University, which are on display at the Museum of Arts and Culture through Feb. 13. The black-and-white photographs trace the internal and external consequences of migration. A gifted art student inspired by his City School District of New Rochelle teachers, Diaz went on to earn full scholarships from both Parsons School of Design, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and Yale University, where he earned a master’s in fine art. He was the first in his family to graduate from college or graduate school. Diaz is a recipient of the Yale School of Art Dean’s Prize (2025), the Alice Kimball English Travel Grant (2024), the NYSCA/NYFA Artist Fellowship in Photography (2022), and the Magnum Foundation US Dispatches Grant (2020). He has exhibited at Gladstone Gallery in New York, the Blue Sky Gallery in Portland, Oregon, and the Bronx Art Space, among others. “Diaz’s story is truly inspiring,” said junior Danica Batista, a PAVE 3 Visual Arts student. “Diaz has helped me to see that anything is possible as long as you put your heart into it.” As for the exhibit at the MAC, Danica said she particularly liked that the images tell a story that moves with the viewer. Diaz, who attended Jefferson Elementary School and Isaac E. Young Middle School, said art teachers Paulo Fiorino and Sonia Dellaripa inspired his early interest in art. During his high school years, Diaz took AP Art, was in PAVE Art, and served as co-president of the National Art Honor Society. He said his photography class with Moira McCaul solidified his passion. Over the course of two days, Diaz spoke with students in 12 classes, not only discussing art but offering first-hand advice on college applications, scholarships and managing it all. “For me, it's important for people to understand that there's a whole process behind making photos,” Diaz has said. “There are images that I think about, and sketch out, but I still allow air to flow in between image making to create flexibility. There's also images that happen by complete accident, where everything aligns and you just press your shutter.” PAVE 3 student Muhammad Arhum was most impressed by Diaz’s work ethic. “The main thing I noticed … was the amount of work he put in after getting into college. I was particularly impressed by how he commuted to Parsons for a while and somehow managed his other responsibilities.” Muhammad added that Diaz’s experience as an RA (resident assistant) in college also resonated because it showed that he took advantage of opportunities. Prior to hearing Diaz talk, Muhammad saId he was not aware that RAs receive benefits that sometimes include free housing in college. “I enjoyed hearing about all types of work and specifically enjoyed the exhibit shown in the gallery,” said Naomi Shechter, also PAVE 3. “Learning that the motion and placement of each photo was intentional to create this sort of timeline made the whole exhibit more enticing.” Naomi added that she was most drawn to an image that appeared to be a shadow of a man because of its emotional power. “Luis shared some of his photographs from his Yale MFA Thesis and explained his thoughts on the work, how he planned the installation, and the story line linking the imagery,” said New Rochelle High School art teacher Alexi Brock. “He also brought in and explained how he uses a large format camera for some of his work.” Brock added that she was grateful to Diaz “for being so open about his life and inspiring the next generation of New Rochelle artists.” Science Comes to Life at Jefferson Elementary Gas exploding. Robots moving. Bubbles bursting. It all happened on Jan. 23 at Jefferson Elementary School’s Mad Science, an interactive science show combined with hands-on activities for students and families. Mad Science was presented in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle and the Jefferson Parent Teacher Association. “The Mad Science program encouraged students to think, ask questions, and experiment as they explored concepts such as oxygen and motion. Through demonstrations and interactive stations, youngsters were able to learn by doing: building, testing, and discovering alongside their peers and family members,” said third grade science teacher Aimee Ferguson. “Smiles and laughter filled the room as participants of all ages explored science in fun and engaging ways.” “I think it was really fun, and it inspired me to do science at home and make a robot,” said third-grader Olivia. Fourth-grader Jocelyn shared her favorite moments as well. “I loved when they put the toilet paper on me. It was fun!” By using toilet paper and a leaf blower, Mad Science demonstrates scientific principles like Bernoulli’s principle, which explains air pressure and lift. Jocelyn said she “also liked building with the blocks because I made a really tall tower.” Tower building helps students explore principles of physics like gravity, balance, stability, and weight while developing spatial reasoning, motor skills, critical thinking, and perseverance. The evening began with a Mad Science show for students and parents in which many students were called up to participate. In one experiment, children rode a hovercraft. After the show, families moved into the gym for hands-on activities at stations exploring different science concepts. Students controlled various robots with remote control devices, watched bubbles form from dropping dry ice into water, and took home color-changing cups for keepsakes. “Events like Mad Science support Jefferson Elementary’s ongoing goal of making science meaningful, engaging, and accessible to all students,” Ferguson said. “By providing hands-on experiences that connect learning to real-world curiosity, the school continues to foster a love of science while bringing the school community together through shared joy and discovery.” Robots Take Over New Rochelle High School in High-Stakes Engineering Duel Forty-six teams from 24 schools across the region gathered on Jan. 24 at New Rochelle High School for an action-packed, academic engineering event known as a VEX V5 Robotics Competition. This engineering contest challenges students to design, build, and program robots to compete in two-on-two matches with randomly assigned alliances. A standard match lasts just two minutes and takes place on a 12-foot-square playing surface. The objective of this year’s challenge is to move as many blocks as possible into four goals placed around the playing area. The game includes both autonomous play, where the robots move based on pre-programmed directions, and manual play, where students move the robots using remote control devices. Students come to the tournament with different perspectives. Some find designing and building robots at home to be more challenging than competing, while others say the pressure to drive successfully can be intense. Regardless of their perspective, all participants must use critical thinking skills, communicate well with teammates, and persevere when obstacles are encountered. New Rochelle participants were inspired by the event. “The NRHS competition was very exciting as it was spontaneous and highly competitive. A new match began every few minutes, and all the while there was compelling music in the background,” said Noor Abdalla, a junior. “From the tournament, I gained some important strategy tips, as well as ideas for design changes and mechanisms that could help my team be more successful.” Noor said the tournament made him more passionate about mechanics and inspired him to improve his CAD (computer-aided design) skills. Sebastian Ramos, also a junior, said the tournament made him reflect on “how other people’s robots worked, what made other teams successful that we could use on our team to be more successful.” He added that the event opened his eyes to new strategies and game plans that could benefit the team. This was the sixth year that the NewRoBots team competed in the event, which is part of the world’s largest robotics competition. Some of the robots used were built with VEX designs, while others were customized by students using approved parts.   New Rochelle Students Shine in 2026 Scholastic Art Awards The above painting, titled "Autophobia," by junior Naomi Shecter, earned a Gold Key award in the 2026 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.  Several New Rochelle High School students won honors in the 2026 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, the nation’s longest and most prestigious recognition program for creative students in grades seven through 12. The awards recognize students in 29 categories of art and writing. Five students were honored, with one earning a Gold Key, which automatically enters the student in a national competition for scholarships awarded in the spring. The following New Rochelle students were honored: Naomi Shechter, a junior, GOLD KEY for “Autophobia” (Painting)- PAVE 3- Alexi Brock. Naomi will be considered for National Awards and scholarships to be announced in the spring. Arianna Larios, a junior, Honorable Mention for “Good Grief” (Painting)- PAVE 3- Alexi Brock Abilene Wang, a sophomore, Honorable Mention for “Tiger Scream” (Printmaking)- PAVE 2- Moira McCaul Alexandra Franco, a junior, Honorable Mention for “Disconnected” (Painting)- AP 2D- Alexi Brock Mia Mendoza, a junior, Honorable Mention for “Views” (Painting) and “Ignorance” (Sculpture)- PAVE3- Alexi Brock This was also the first year for a new category of Editorial Cartoon– Mia Mendoza was also recognized for her piece “American Halloween,” which was printed in the NRHS Herald with Rachel McCain as the advisor. Congratulations to our student winners and their teachers, Alexi Brock, Moira McCaul, and Rachel McCain, on this amazing accomplishment. Serving Up Safety: SADD Club Partners with Gemelli’s for Super Bowl Weekend This Super Bowl weekend, as families across New Rochelle gather for the big game, our SADD Club (Students Against Destructive Decisions) is ensuring that "prevention" is part of the play-by-play. In a powerful collaboration with the Westchester County Youth Leadership Task Force (YLTF), our students hit the pavement to participate in the annual Pizza Initiative. This countywide campaign aims to reach families directly at the dinner table to raise awareness about the dangers of underage drinking and gambling. Our SADD students visited Gemelli’s Pizzeria on North Avenue, where they worked with the staff to place special prevention stickers on pizza boxes slated for delivery during the busy Super Bowl weekend (Feb. 6–8). These stickers serve as a vital reminder for parents and guardians to use their influence in preventing youth alcohol use. They also feature a link to PowerToTheParent.org, a resource-rich site dedicated to helping local families keep their children alcohol-free. The Super Bowl is one of the biggest social events of the year, but it also carries increased risks for underage exposure to alcohol and gambling. By bringing this message to local businesses, our students are: Promoting Healthy Choices: Highlighting the risks associated with youth gambling and drinking. Building Community: Partnering with local staples like Gemelli’s to create a unified front for student safety. Developing Leadership: Empowering our SADD members to lead professional outreach with local business owners. "We are incredibly grateful to the management and staff at Gemelli’s Pizzeria for their warm welcome and their commitment to the health and safety of New Rochelle’s youth!" The initiative is sponsored by the Westchester Coalition for Drug and Alcohol Free Youth. This effort is a testament to the hard work of the Youth Leadership Task Force, a group of dedicated high schoolers from across the county who plan events to keep our communities safe and informed. Unity and Spirit Shine at Davis Davis Elementary School kicked off Unity Day on Jan. 9 - a celebration of the school community, united by its commitment to the 4 Be’s: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe, and Be Kind.  Daily announcements and lessons focused on tips for practicing self-control by making thoughtful choices, using problem-solving skills to work through challenges, and showing empathy by listening to and supporting one another. Class activities and discussions emphasized the importance of safe and ethical behavior, helping students understand how their actions affect others.  Unity Day reminded everyone that when we follow the 4 Be’s and lead with kindness and respect, we create a school environment where all students feel safe, valued, and included. Unity Celebrations progressed to Spirit Week.   Spirit Week brought a focus to celebrating our differences, honoring what makes us each special, and what each individual brings to Davis every day. It included United Colors Day, Mismatch Day, Word Power Day, Inside Out Day, and ended on a high note with Superhero Day. First grader Evan Davis said his favorite part of spirit week was Inside Out Day because, "You got to show people that you can all be different and still be kind to one another."  Classmate Georgia Caldwell agreed but thought Word Power Day was the best because, "You can change a person's day just by using one positive word."  Fifth grader Ashley Hernandez Temaj said Word Power Day was "so much fun because you got to think about all the things you like about yourself." Isaac E. Young Middle School Faculty and Staff Honored for Earning Tenure Photo L to R: Jason Roberts, School Counselor; Kyani Lawrence, School Psychologist; Nicole Neto, ENL teacher; Gia Saul, Physical Education and Adaptive Physical Education Teacher; Tasha Brown, Teaching Assistant; Michelleann Defilippis, Special Education Teacher; Scott Harris, PAVE and Theater Arts Teacher; Dr. Divya Deshpande, Special Education Teacher; Amber Singleton, Science Teacher. Ten Isaac E. Young Middle School (IEYMS) faculty and staff members who achieved tenure were honored at the Board of Education meeting held at their school on Jan. 22. Principal Dr. Tawanda Robinson congratulated the group before presenting them with certificates. “You are so talented,” said Dr. Robinson. “I challenge you. I ask that you continue to contribute to this school in the ways that have brought you to this point where you are being recognized, and that you use your talents, strengths, and interests to add value to the Isaac E. Young Middle School community for years to come.” The newly tenured teachers are: Nicole Neto, ENL teacher Gia Saul, Physical Education and Adaptive Physical Education Teacher Tasha Brown, Teaching Assistant Michelleann Defilippis, Special Education Teacher Scott Harris, PAVE and Theater Arts Teacher Kyani Lawrence, School Psychologist Dr. Divya Deshpande, Special Education Teacher Amber Singleton, Science Teacher Joshua Akandu, Teacher (not pictured) Elementary Teacher Jason Roberts, School Counselor “Thank you to a phenomenal group, and I look forward to many more years of watching you grow and develop as amazing educators,” Dr. Robinson said. Seven Trinity Faculty and Staff Tenured Photo L to R: Femi Wheeler, Physical Education Teacher; Maria Velez, Teacher Assistant; Mariahelena Ruiz, General Education Teacher; Sinead Deans, Special Education Teacher; Jennifer Betz, General Education Teacher; Nicole Barney, General Education Teacher; Brittany Anderson, School Psychologist; Michael Hilderbrand, Principal Congratulations to the seven Trinity teachers and staff members who were honored for achieving tenure at the Board of Education meeting held at Trinity on Tuesday, Feb. 3.  The honorees are:  Brittany Anderson, School Psychologist Nicole Barney, General Education Teacher  Jennifer Betz, General Education Teacher  Sinead Deans, Special Education Teacher Mariahelena Ruiz, General Education Teacher Maria Velez, Teacher Assistant  Femi Wheeler, Physical Education Teacher  “These seven educators are a powerful force, and we are so fortunate to have them as part of the Trinity team,” said Principal Michael Hilderbrand. “We often say ‘Everything you do matters,’ each of these seven is doing the work that matters; each and every day.”  Congratulations to the tenured Trinity faculty and staff!  Take-Home Meals to be Provided for Students Who are Fasting for Ramadan From Feb. 23 through March 19, take-home meals will be provided to students who are fasting in observance of Ramadan so they may consume the food at a time that honors their religious beliefs. Parents/guardians who wish for their children to participate are asked to opt in using the following Meal Request Form no later than Tuesday, Feb. 17.  As we approached the observance of Ramadan for many of our New Rochelle families, the City School District of New Rochelle applied for, and received, a waiver from the state Department of Education Child Nutrition program that allows our food service department to provide grab-and-go meals for both breakfast and lunch to students who are actively fasting. These students will be able to receive a breakfast and/or lunch to take home to eat before dawn breaks the following morning or after sunset. These meals are being provided at no cost due to the district's current CEP status: Breakfast: One of the options below will be available daily Bagel Meal: Bagel, Cream cheese, fruit, milk Muffin Meal: Muffin, fruit, milk Cereal Meal: Cereal, Belly Bear, fruit, milk Lunch: One of the options below will be available daily Sunbutter & Jelly Sandwich w/ Baby Carrots, milk & fruit Bagel Meal: Bagel, Cream cheese, String cheese, Baby carrots, fruit, milk Muffin Meal: Muffin, String cheese, Baby carrots, fruit, milk This non-congregate meal offering for students is in lieu of students receiving breakfast and lunch during the school day due to active fasting during Ramadan. If your student also takes a breakfast or lunch from the service line during school hours, and then receives the non-congregate meals to take home, their food service account will incur an additional charge for the additional meal(s). Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, a time for spiritual reflection, increased prayer, and fasting from dawn to sunset, commemorating the first revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims fast during daylight hours as an act of worship, self-discipline, empathy, and drawing closer to God, culminating in the festival of Eid al-Fitr.   Sights and Sounds from Around the District   Trinity Marching Band Revs up the Crowd at Board of Education Meeting   Harmonizing Talent: Success at the 2026 Secondary Music Festivals! Our talented musicians performed spectacularly last week at the Secondary Music Festivals for Strings, Band, and Chorus. It wasn't just about the music; it was about building the future of our performing arts community. New Rochelle High School was thrilled to welcome eighth-grade students from Albert Leonard Middle School and Isaac E. Young Middle School to campus. The annual tradition offers middle schoolers an "all-access pass" to the high school experience, easing their transition and fueling their excitement for the years ahead. The highlight of the festival was the vertical alignment in practice. Eighth graders jumped right into the mix, rehearsing and performing side-by-side with the seasoned high school musicians. This mentorship creates a powerful, authentic environment where younger students can see exactly where their dedication can take them. "The energy of each performance was incredible! Watching our high school musicians mentor and play alongside the incoming freshmen perfectly illustrates the strength and continuity of our district's music programs," said K-12 Performing and Visual Arts Director Matthew Lucero.  The seamless coordination would not be possible without the visionary leadership of the music faculty. Thank you to Claire Stancarone, Scott Byers, Matt Henry, and Christopher Russo for their tireless dedication to our students’ growth and for orchestrating such a meaningful week. Secondary Strings Festival Secondary Band Festival Secondary Choral Festival Ms. Brock's Students Visit the Met Webster Students are Magical in Aladdin Athletics Good Luck at Nationals! The New Rochelle cheerleading team had a rousing send-off to nationals at New Rochelle High School The team left for the national competition in Florida this week.   Section One Champions!!!!! The merged East Green Wave girls varsity ice hockey team won 1-0, capturing their first Section 1 title, defeating North Avalanche. The team is a merged ice hockey team consisting of students from New Rochelle, Scarsdale, Mamaroneck, Rye Neck, White Plains, Ursuline, Ardsley, Sleepy Hollow, Pelham, and Rye. The team was established only last year, and has already captured the championship! Congratulations, Green Wave and Coach Jed Shahar! Wave to go!    Varsity Hockey Senior Night On Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Ice Hutch, the Boys Varsity Hockey Team honored its seniors:  Nathan Greenberg, Brandon Stramiello, Luca Pitocchi, Ethan Menkes, and Spencer Gray. Congratulations seniors!    Girls Varsity Basketball New Rochelle 55, Clarkstown South 70 New Rochelle 46, Mamaroneck 53 Congratulations, seniors Stella Ziogas and Xarlee Gilyard!   Varsity Girls’ Track Team Shines in Westchester County Championship Congratulations to the New Rochelle High School Girls’ Varsity Track Team, who had an impressive showing at the Westchester County Championship meet on Jan. 24 at the Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory in New York. Junior Alexis Smith was the County Champion in the 55-meter hurdles. Senior Sophia Ochoa was the County Champion in the triple jump, and sophomore Olivia Solomon took the County Championship in the 1500-meter run. Great job, ladies!  Millrose Games Winners Alexis Smith, Sophia Ochoa, Olivia Solomon, and Alivia Smith, won the suburban 4x400 relay at the Millrose Games with a time of 3:56. Congratulations on a great win!  Pioneers Floorball The New Rochelle Pioneers placed fourth at the Super Regional Floorball tournament on Saturday, Jan. 31. It was a tough loss in the final game, but the team had much to be proud of. In the last period, the Pioneers ratcheted up the intensity and tightened their defense to fight their way back. With 52 seconds remaining, the team was down by one goal, but the final breakthrough never came before the clock ran out. The late comeback showed resilience and a refusal to give up when it mattered most.  The Pioneers now look forward to starting the basketball season. New Rochelle High School will host the Hudson Valley Regional Basketball Tournament on Mar. 14, at 9:00 a.m.  Be there! Smith is Best in Class New Rochelle High School sophomore and lacrosse player Milan Smith was selected as an All-Star in the Best in Class Showcase held Jan. 10 and 11 in Bardenton, Florida. The showcase is an opportunity for lacrosse players to showcase their skills in front of recruiting coaches from across the country. Smith was one of 20 players who stood out to the scouts, receiving an impressive evaluation score of 83. And, she was one of only 10 defenders selected for the two All-Star teams.  “Smith's raw athletic talent allows her to go head-to-head with the fastest dodgers and shuts them down by matching them step for step through every change of direction. She plays with an incredible amount of energy that turns heads and creates unity with any defensive group,” said the Inside Lacrosse Women article featuring her.  Milan was one of only three defenders selected to be highlighted in the Inside Lacrosse Journal.  Scores Elementary Girls' Basketball Ward 40, Trinity 8 Ward 43, Jefferson 2 ALMS Boys Basketball ALMS 58, Mamaroneck 59 ALMS 63, Mount Vernon 33 Freshman Boys’ Basketball New Rochelle 52, Scarsdale white 19 New Rochelle 91, Scarsdale Maroon 48 New Rochelle 51, White Plains 44 The team is still undefeated this season!  Junior Varsity Boys’ Basketball New Rochelle 78, North Rockland 59  New Rochelle 54, Mamaroneck 32 Junior Varsity Girls’ Basketball New Rochelle 48, Mamaroneck 37 New Rochelle 52, Mount Vernon 27 Varsity Boys’ Basketball New Rochelle 60 , North Rockland 78 New Rochelle 37, Mamaroneck 50 New Rochelle 64, Mount Vernon 65 Photo credit: Bobby Begun Varsity Wrestling New Rochelle 49, White Plains 30 - Senior Night Varsity Swim Team The Varsity Swim Team had a great showing at the League Championship Swim on Jan. 31. Sam Cave New York State and Sectionals for 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle, and relays. Mac Bach sectionals for 50 freestyle, 100 breast stroke, and relays. Ben Fusco sectional relays, contributing in backstroke and freestyle.  Check out all the great community events happening now! Click here for community events   Copyright and Ownership Notice ©2026 City School District of New Rochelle All content, including text, photographs, graphics, and other materials in this newsletter, is the sole and exclusive property of The City School District of New Rochelle. All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the prior written permission of the City School District of New Rochelle. For permission requests, please contact Monica Mahaffey, Public Information Officer, at mmahaffey@nredlearn.org.  

Friday, Feb 06 2026