News from Our Schools October 15, 2026

News from Our Schools October 15, 2026 Hispanic Heritage Month Ends in Celebration Barnard Celebrates Mariachi Style Henry Barnard School students enjoyed a lively Hispanic Heritage Month celebration with a traditional Mariachi Band on Friday, Oct. 9. Mariachi Mexico International, NYC, under the direction of Sergio Trujillo, performed vibrant and energetic songs to an appreciative audience. Trujillo is the parent of a Barnard first grader in Mrs. Romero’s class. At Barnard, the school mascot and acronym, BATS, stands for Belonging, Accepting, Together, and Safe. Assistant Principal Ms. Malikh Ifill said the show was a fitting Tier 1 initiative. “One way to practice belonging and acceptance is by learning about cultures, traditions, music, and experiences of others. Mariachi Mexico International was an excellent opportunity to experience an important part of Mexican culture, learn about instruments in a mariachi band, and enjoy music together as a school community,” said Ms. Ifill. “Although we come from different families, cultures, and traditions, we all BELONG and are ACCEPTED!” Students also learned about the traditions associated with Mariachi, including seeing the traditional colorful Mexican embroidered suits the musicians wore. “I thought it was really great,” said Barnard student Valentina. “I love the music, and it was fun being in the auditorium with the whole school for the show.” “I loved everything about it!” said her friend Gina. “My favorite instrument is the guitar, and my favorite song they played was Baby Shark.” Mrs. Travieo’s favorite song was “Es Mi Niña Bonita,” which brought a special memory to mind. “The song is about how much a parent can love their child. I danced with my father at my wedding to this song. It’s a beautiful song,” she said. Mariachi music originated in the western Mexico countryside during the 18th and 19th centuries. Performers combine passionate vocals with distinctive brass and string instruments to create an emotional and captivating sound. Daniel Webster PTA Brings Families Together to Honor Hispanic Culture and Tradition The Daniel Webster Elementary School community celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with an evening of culture, music, food, creativity, and family fun. More than 175 students and family members gathered to learn about and celebrate rich Hispanic and Latino traditions and cultures. “I loved learning salsa because we got to dance with our friends and try something new,” said one student participant. “It’s important to celebrate our heritage because we get to learn about where people and their families come from,” added another. Ryan Marrero of Calle Fuego provided salsa lessons for children to music provided by DJ Dave Fuego. There was Mexican pot decorating, lantern making, La Lotería (Spanish Bingo), and a fun Fly Swat Spanish Sight Words game where students practiced Spanish vocabulary. “My favorite part was making the crafts,” said one student. “It was really fun learning about different traditions.” Food was also a big part of the celebration. Students assembled their own tres leches and walking tacos, while families enjoyed a variety of empanadas and kid-friendly sangria mocktails. Event chairs Lucy Mota and Chandra LaNier received high praise from participants for putting together a wonderful celebration, along with volunteers who helped bring the celebration to life. “I am so proud of our PTA for putting on this amazing event,” said Principal Katie Castellano. “My gratitude goes to PTA President Stephanie Krieger for her leadership and empowering PTA member volunteers to rise to help make our school community so cohesive and unified!” From the dancing and crafts to the games and food, the evening brought Webster families together in a special way that honored cultures and traditions represented throughout the school community. High School Students Celebrate Hispanic Heritage with Vibrant Salsa Music New Rochelle High School students celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month on Oct. 14 by diving into the history and sounds of salsa music. Hosted by the library in collaboration with the English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Performing and Visual Arts Education (PAVE) Departments, the third annual event highlighted the American Hispanic community’s rich cultural contributions. The celebration focused on the rise of salsa music in the 1960s. Emerging as a high-energy fusion of Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Dominican rhythms blended with jazz, R&B, and soul, salsa grew into one of the world’s most popular musical genres. "Every year when I plan events, I make a concerted effort to tie the topic back to New York History, because it is the history of our students. While the rise of salsa is tied so deeply to El Barrio and the South Bronx of New York City, New Rochelle also played a significant role in the history of salsa, with many notable performances at the Glen Island Casino and serving as the home of Salsa Legend Willie Colón in the later years of his life," said Librarian Ryan Paulsen. "I was also excited to include the PAVE Department in this year's activity, with a hands-on salsa drum circle, expanding upon the cross-curricular goals of these events beyond the traditional Humanities departments." "As a PAVE student, I think it's really great to share salsa music with students who may not have heard it before so they can experience it," said Liam O'Hare. "A lot of these songs are related to folklore or stories specific to revolution or racism, and we can learn through music about the history of the Latino community." Mr. Paulsen added that he is happy to see students engaging dynamically with the library space during events, which expand instruction to topics that might otherwise fall outside of the traditional high school curriculum. "This is tied to my heritage. It's really important to think of different cultures and how they contributed. When we see this type of food and music, we're not always thinking about the importance of its origin or where it came from," said 9th grader Ethan Laracuente. Throughout the day, students spent their free periods sampling the iconic sound and sharing in the heritage of salsa music's growth. Isaac E. Young Middle School Students Welcome Acclaimed Author Pablo Cartaya Gonzalo Alberto Garcia is no hero. But when the 13-year-old fantasy fan is forced to spend the summer with his estranged grandfather, famous author Alberto William Garcia, he learns that monsters and heroes exist in real life too. Students at Isaac E. Young Middle School had the honor of meeting Pablo Cartaya, the author of “A Hero’s Guide to Summer Vacation,” which tells Gonzalo’s story. Cartaya, the author of six books for middle-grade students, spoke with students about his life and creative process on Friday, Oct. 9, in the IEYMS library. The writing sessions began with students working collaboratively to develop stories that would emerge from the writing process, first brainstorming storytelling ideas, merging story concepts, and integrating characters and/or storylines inspired by books, TV shows, films, or even video games. “This is my fifth year visiting Isaac,” said Cartaya, a Cuban American living in Miami, Fla. “I’m so happy to spend some time with all the awesome students here. There is such great creativity. These stories are really fun, and they’re amazing.” Students described him as funny and an entertaining presenter. ”It was interesting to learn that Mr. Cartaya based characters on family members. He is a very good storyteller and speaker,” said Sofia A. ”I liked how Mr. Cartaya talked about making a book about Isaac and let us share our ideas!” said classmate Mason. Cartaya is a New York Times bestselling acclaimed author, screenwriter, speaker, actor, educator, and community builder. His work has been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, NBC, and on Oprah’s Book Club List. He has worked with Disney, Apple TV+, and Sesame Street on projects adapted from television series and features, and has appeared on television shows and in commercials and music videos. His novels have been published by Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, McGraw Hill, and Disney Publishing Worldwide. Novels include: “The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora,” “Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish,” “Each Tiny Spark,” the climate dystopia “The Last Beekeeper,” and “Hope Wins: A Collection of Inspiring Stories for Young Readers.” “I am grateful that Mr. Cartaya let us all get his autograph,” said Rony R. "It was great; it was cool meeting the author of the book we are reading." Jacob G. added, "It was crazy because it was my first time meeting an author, and he told us about things in his life." "I was excited because I've never met an author, and he told us about his abuela. I really liked when he spoke a little bit of Spanish," said Katerin M. "O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?" Juliet Capulet speaks those words from the balcony in Act 2, Scene 2 of “Romeo and Juliet,” unaware that Romeo is listening. The meaning behind them is at the core of the Shakespearean tragedy. Huguenot Academy students enjoyed some Shakespeare in the park on the last warm weather day of the season. Students in Kettisha Nwonye's English Language Arts class did their learning outside on Friday, Oct. 2, when the mercury reached 84 degrees. Students took turns reading aloud from William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” in Lincoln Park, adjacent to the Remington Boys & Girls Club, where their school program is located. They said the book was perfect to take outside. "We love ‘Romeo and Juliet!’ The play is exciting, and we love to take on reading roles during class time. Being outside enhanced this excitement,” said one student. Another student commented: "Being outside gave us the feeling of being calm and free. We didn't feel like caged birds and were able to sit in the sun and feel the breeze. It was a nice break from being inside all day." Huguenot Academy Director Dr. Merica Neufville said, “Having the chance to enjoy an outdoor space while learning has been a long-time request from our students,” adding that she was “grateful to work with a group of teachers, students, families, and partners who support us as we continue to reimagine what a learning environment looks like.” For the students, there was no question the approach was a success. "Going outside definitely made us feel special. It reminded us of our middle school experience where we had similar opportunities to take our learning outdoors. We definitely feel this should become a standard." Students said learning al fresco does not have to be limited to ELA. "It's a good idea to learn outside because we feel more relaxed. It creates an environment that makes us eager to participate,” said one student. "Trips, PE, Science experiments, and real-world applications for math are examples of learning that we feel can be done outside. We feel it is important for us to have access to fresh air at different points throughout the day as long as it is safe." Davis Book Fair Family Night Celebrates a Community of Reading Fifty Davis Elementary School families joined in their shared love of reading at the Davis Book Fair Family Night on Oct. 6. Students perused the shelves set up in the gymnasium to find good reads. The most popular selections included “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” “I Survived,” “Dogman,” and “The Bad Seed” series. “Kids love coming in to see all the books. They really enjoy the independence of shopping ‘by themselves’ with some help from our volunteers and teachers,” said PTA Co-President Susan Korzon. “We give a big shout-out to our Davis teachers, Ms. Curry, Ms. Moses, and Ms. Cayanan, along with Principal Anthony Bambrola, for volunteering to read stories to the kids at Family Night.” In addition to hosting the event, the PTA used “Scholastic Dollars” earned from the fair to purchase brand-new books for classroom libraries throughout the school. Journal News Names O’Rourke and Krasner in the Top 7 Cross Country Runners in Section I Two New Rochelle High School runners are listed among the very best in Section 1 cross country. The Journal News has named NRHS junior Jonas Krasner (above right) and senior Jackson O’Rourke (above left) in the Section 1 “Boys Super 7.” The rankings are based on last year’s performance and this year’s meets so far. Senior Riley O’Rourke and junior Ben Salama were listed among the “Best of the Rest” for Section 1 boys. Junior Olivia Solomon made the “Best of the Rest” girls list for Section 1. The state cross country championships are at Queensbury High School in Warren County on November 14. We’ll be cheering on all of our runners. Best of luck! Trinity Educator Wins "Thank a Teacher" Contest Congratulations to Trinity Special Education Teacher Ashley Fernandez, who won a prize in the iHeartRadio and Boost Mobile "Thank a Teacher" contest. Ashley was nominated by the family of one of her grades 1 and 2 students, who wanted her to be recognized for all she gives her students each day, approaching her work with warm energy and compassion. "I was totally surprised and honored," said Ms. Fernandez, who is starting her fourth year of teaching at Trinity. "I love working with all my students through the years. Being a Special Ed teacher, you sometimes get to work with students for more than one year, which is special. I love what I do. I'm very grateful to be considered and recognized. I love being part of the City School District of New Rochelle community, and teaching at Trinity is the best. The families are fantastic, my colleagues are wonderful, and the administration is terrific." Ms. Fernandez was awarded a certificate and a $500 gift card. Well done! Veterans with Service-Related Disabilities Exempt from Paying School Taxes Veterans with service-related disabilities will no longer pay school property taxes, the City School District Board of Education has announced. The board passed a resolution at its Oct. 8 meeting exempting veterans with service-related disabilities from paying school taxes on their primary residences, following a public hearing on the proposed exemption. It is in effect for assessment rolls on or after Oct. 8. New York State Real Property Tax Law (“RPTL”) § 458-a (11) authorizes a school district, after holding a public hearing, to adopt a resolution providing a full exemption from school district real property taxes for the primary residence of a qualifying veteran with a service-connected disability. In May, New York State Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation to restore the exemption as a local option for school districts and to revise the eligibility requirements for qualifying veterans. New Rochelle authorizes the exemption for veterans who provide a letter from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs stating the veteran is permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service. Sights and Sounds from Around the District Three Cheers for Community Service! The New Rochelle Modified Cheer Team volunteering at the Paine to Pain half-marathon on Sunday, October 11. Mariachi Mexico International NYC Athletics UCA Game Day Regional West Genesee High School: 1st New Rochelle High School: 2nd Division Avenue High School: 3rd The Varsity squad received its bid to nationals! Port Chester Varsity Competition Port Chester: 1st New Rochelle: 2nd Carmel: 3rd Alrington: 4th Mamaroneck: 5th Mount Vernon: 6th Port Chester Modified Competition New Ro: 1st Place! Port Chester Junior Varsity Competition New Rochelle: 1st Alrington: 2nd Carmel: 3rd Girls Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 0, Pelham 3 New Rochelle 2, Port Chester 3 New Rochelle 3, White Plains 1 New Rochelle 0, Mamaroneck 3 Girls Junior Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 2, Pelham 1 New Rochelle 2, Port Chester 0 New Rochelle 2, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 0, Mamaroneck 2 Girls Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 0, Nyack 3 New Rochelle 1, Scarsdale 2 New Rochelle 1, White Plains 5 New Rochelle 0, Abertus Magnus 8 New Rochelle 0, North Rockland 4 Girls Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 5, Scarsdale 1 New Rochelle 8, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 0, Mamaroneck 0 Boys Varsity Football New Rochelle 39, East Ramapo 7 New Rochelle 18, Mamaroneck 30 Boys Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 2, Port Chester 0 New Rochelle 3, Rye 1 New Rochelle 3, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 8, Mount Vernon 0 New Rochelle 1, Mamaroneck 1 New Rochelle 1, Scarsdale 2 Boys Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 4, White Plains 2 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, Oct 15 2026

News from Our Schools: October 1, 2026

News from Our Schools October 1, 2026 National Merit Commended Students 2027 Ten New Rochelle High School seniors have been named Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. They are: Muhammad Arhum, Danica Batista, Nathan Grandwetter, Claire McCloskey, Kelechi Njoku, Riley O’Rourke, Lucas Palchik, Ariana Rueda, Elnaz Sadeghi, and Max Straussberg. The recognition reflects their performance on the 2025 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, or PSAT/NMSQT. Their scores put them among the top 50,000 students who entered the 2027 program. “Those being named Commended Students have demonstrated outstanding potential for academic success,” said a spokesperson for National Merit. “These students represent a valuable national resource; recognizing their accomplishments, as well as the key role their schools play in their academic development, is vital to the advancement of educational excellence in our nation.” Each of the 10 honorees will receive a letter of commendation issued by the school and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. Start With Hello Hello. Sometimes, that one word is all it takes to ease someone’s loneliness or fear, or to find a new friend. At Albert Leonard Middle School and Isaac E. Young Middle School last week, students learned the power of that word during “Start with Hello” Week. “Our school proudly participated in 'Start With Hello' Week, teaching students the valuable skills of reaching out, including others, and reducing social isolation,” said Albert Leonard Assistant Principal Elizabeth Alvarez-Pena. “It was wonderful to see our entire building embrace the daily themes.” On Tuesday, students wore name tags designed to spark conversations and learn each other’s names, while Wednesday saw students dress in green to show unity against social isolation. Thursday was a day for connecting with trusted adults in the building, ensuring that every child knows they have a support system. Students closed out the week on Friday showing their collective connectedness. Jennifer Vivolo-Carsen, Isaac E. Young reading teacher, started “Start with Hello" Week back in 2017 after participating in the New York City marathon on behalf of Sandy Hook Promise. “This week reminds students that we are one IEY community,” Vivolo-Carsen said. “I am also always impressed by how willing students are to participate.” "My experience with helping with 'Start With Hello' Week was calming and nice," said Amelia Lora, an eighth grader. "When putting up locker notes, it felt nice to brighten up people's days with a simple but impactful message." A new sixth grader said, “‘Start with Hello' Week helped welcome me to IEY by showing me that this is a place where I can be included and welcomed and cared for.” As part of the week, students wrote kind messages and affirmations and left them in places for other students to find. Sixth grader Sophia Aguilar said, “I loved the locker note because it was special.” NHS Chapter of Distinction The New Rochelle High School National Honor Society has been named a 2026 Chapter of Distinction for its outstanding leadership, service and continuing efforts to improve both the school and community. The Chapter of Distinction Award celebrates chapters that embody what the National Honor Society stands for — students who don’t just excel academically but actively strengthen their communities. “The NHS Chapter of Distinction Award recognizes the hard work, leadership and service of our students and their commitment to making a meaningful difference in our school and community,” said Gabriella Musto, NHS advisor. Musto said the National Honor Society students regularly complete projects that benefit the school community and beyond. For example, all NHS students participate in a lake cleanup where more than 60 pounds of trash is removed from the lake on the high school property and surrounding areas. “Last year, our chapter came together to turn donated T-shirts into dog toys for several local animal shelters," said NHS member Isabela Fernandez. "It was a simple project, but it showed how working together can turn everyday materials into something meaningful for our community.” William Moscowitz-Urbas, another chapter member, said an important part of the chapter is helping others to succeed. "We want to support underclassmen ... to set high goals, take advantage of opportunities and believe in what they can achieve." Musto said this year, chapter members have already completed hours of individual community service and are preparing to participate in a group service event on Nov. 7. The Chapters of Distinction is a national recognition program created by the National Honor Society to honor chapters that demonstrate strong leadership, sound operations, and a deep commitment to the pillars of the Honor Society. This distinction recognizes chapters that meet all Essential Standards and excel in key areas such as student governance and leadership development. “The New Rochelle High School chapter demonstrates how powerful it can be when young leaders channel their talents toward meaningful service and positive change,” said Ronn Nozoe, CEO of the National Principals Association. New Rochelle Teachers Explore Marine Ecology at Five Islands Park On Sept. 12, eight New Rochelle teachers donned waders and kayaked around Long Island Sound, making observations, asking questions and seeing New Rochelle’s coastline in a brand new way. The outing was designed to help teachers see the learning opportunities for their students that exist right in their own community. Led by New Rochelle High School teachers Carmen Glenn and Jonathan LaRosa, in partnership with Lillit Genovesi (NYSG), the workshop was made possible by New York Sea Grant (NYSG) and the Long Island Sound Study Partnership. The sponsors provided the opportunity, resources, and equipment to bring coastal science and environmental education into teacher classrooms. “Place-based learning is critical for science education,” said Glenn. “Five Islands Park is an ecological gem where students can learn about local ecology and human impact on the environment.” Working with the L.L.Bean Discovery School, educators investigated the marine ecosystem and explored life cycles and organisms connected to the Long Island Sound while considering how authentic experiences could translate into meaningful investigations for students. The workshop brought together educators from several New Rochelle schools, including Yesenia Sanchez, kindergarten teacher; Terri Agravat, STEAM teacher from Trinity Elementary School; Claudia Gianserra and Scott Misner from Isaac E. Young Middle School; Lucia Brea from Jefferson Elementary School; and Peggy Younger from New Rochelle High School. For Jefferson Elementary School teacher Brea, experiencing the ecosystem firsthand was particularly powerful. “This was an amazing experience: to be able to visit the park, get into the water with waders and kayaks, and explore our local ecosystem,” she said. “It was exciting to experience a place so close to our schools as a living laboratory for learning.” The workshop also laid the groundwork for continued opportunities for New Rochelle students. “The hub for Eco-Ambassadors in the summer can support learning throughout the entire year,” said LaRosa. Looking ahead, the organizers hope to establish a lending library of equipment and activities that New Rochelle teachers could use when bringing their students to Five Islands Park. The lending library would provide educators with tools and resources to help students investigate the estuary through hands-on experiences. Students could observe organisms and habitats, investigate water and shoreline conditions, document biodiversity, explore food webs and life cycles, and develop a deeper understanding of how the Long Island Sound connects to their own community. “Providing opportunities for students to deepen their connection with the natural world is the first step in developing a sense of environmental stewardship in our students,” said Agravat. Five Islands Park represents an exciting and untapped resource for place-based learning. It is located here in New Rochelle and is close to a number of schools. The park provides an opportunity for students to experience and investigate ecosystem learning first-hand. The Sept. 12 workshop demonstrated the power of collaboration among New Rochelle educators, New York Sea Grant, the Long Island Sound Study Partnership, and community partners. By connecting teachers across grade levels with local environmental resources, the initiative should help to create new possibilities for hands-on science, environmental literacy, and place-based learning throughout the district. For New Rochelle students, the waters of the Long Island Sound are not somewhere far away in a textbook. They are right here in their own backyard, and there is so much more to discover. There are many workshops that happen throughout the year; the most recent one in Westchester was off the Bronx River in Yonkers on September 27. Constitution Day at Isaac E. Young Middle School Perhaps more than any other document, the United States Constitution sets this nation apart. Written more than 10 years after the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution defines the powers of each branch of government: executive, legislative, and judicial. Most importantly, it establishes a system of checks and balances. For these reasons, New York State declared Sept. 17 as “Constitution Day,” and mandated that schools teach students about this foundational document. At Isaac E. Young Middle School, sixth and seventh graders celebrated Constitution Day with a variety of activities focused on government, rights, and citizenship. For sixth graders studying ancient civilizations this year, the day focused on key principles of government, including popular sovereignty, limited government, separation of powers, and representative government. Seventh graders examined how the Constitution protects individual freedoms. Through discussion and writing, students considered the meaning of liberty, individual rights, and government responsibilities. “Constitution Day is an opportunity to connect history to the future, helping New York State graduates become prepared, thoughtful, and engaged citizens ready to contribute to our democracy,” said Dr. Santosha Oliver, assistant commissioner of the New York State Education Department. Eighth graders investigated how the meaning of citizenship has expanded over time by studying constitutional amendments that broadened rights and participation. Students created timelines and reflected on how the Constitution continues to shape American life. IEYMS students connected the Constitution’s history and principles to their lives today while strengthening their skills in critical thinking, collaboration, discussion, and civic understanding. “Through these learning experiences, our students were reminded that the Constitution is more than a historical document—it is a living foundation that continues to shape our rights, responsibilities, and role as citizens today,” said Dr. Beatrice Lopez, IEYMS Humanities Chairperson. Dr. Lopez Recognized With Statewide Teaching Award Dr. Beatrice Lopez has been selected as a recipient of the Educator of Excellence award by the New York State English Council (NYSEC), after receiving two nominations. “We are so proud of Dr. Lopez,” said IEYMS Principal Dr. Tawanda Robinson. “She works tirelessly in service to the IEYMS children, teachers, and the entire community. I am fortunate and honored to work alongside such a fabulous administrator.” The prestigious award honors excellence in teaching. Dr. Lopez will receive it at the NYSEC Conference in Albany on October 23. New York State Changes Graduation Requirements Beginning with the Class of 2028, New York State students will no longer be required to pass Regents exams to graduate from high school. The change is part of a sweeping new approach that will maintain strong academic standards while placing greater emphasis on students’ ability to apply their learning in the real world. Under the new requirements, New York State will transition to a single diploma system, eliminating the tiered local, Regents, and advanced diplomas. Students can still earn advanced designations and other special recognitions, which will convert to seals or endorsements on the standard diploma. The state is phasing in new requirements for career-connected learning experiences, along with mandated instruction in finance and climate education. As the changes are implemented, New York will move forward with incorporating its “Portrait of a Graduate” standards. These call for graduates who are: academically prepared, creative innovators, critical thinkers, effective communicators, global citizens, reflective, and future-focused. Regents exams will not disappear entirely. Rather, they will be administered to measure academic performance, meet federal rules, and qualify for endorsements. School districts will transition toward other assessment approaches such as classroom observations, student work, and performance-based tasks to determine student readiness. Students who graduate this year will follow current requirements. However, the Class of 2028 will no longer have to pass a specific set of Regents exams to graduate. “For New Rochelle, this transition provides an important opportunity to build upon the work already underway at New Rochelle High School and throughout our schools to prepare students for success beyond graduation,” said New Rochelle Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. “As NYSED creates greater flexibility in how students demonstrate their learning, we will continue expanding rigorous and meaningful opportunities for students to think deeply, apply their learning, solve meaningful problems, and demonstrate what they know and can do.” BOE Audit Committee The Board of Education is seeking two New Rochelle residents to serve on the Board of Education’s Audit Committee. The Audit Committee plays an important role in promoting transparency, accountability, and sound financial practices within our school district. We are looking for residents who are willing to contribute their time, expertise, and perspective to help support the responsible stewardship of district resources. In accordance with the resolution establishing the Committee, candidates should possess knowledge and experience in accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and/or school district finances. A strong commitment to our schools and community, as well as an ability to review financial information objectively and thoughtfully, is also important. This is an opportunity for community members with relevant professional or financial experience to give back to our school district and help strengthen public confidence in its financial oversight. The Audit Committee will meet quarterly (remotely) on Friday mornings. We encourage qualified residents who are interested in submitting their names for consideration. Please include a brief statement describing your background, relevant experience, and why you are interested in serving. Please note that the following individuals are legally precluded from serving on the Audit Committee: person(s) currently employed by the district; an individual who within the last two years provided or currently provides services or goods or services to the district; the owner of or a person having a direct and material interest in a company providing goods or services to the district; or a close or immediate family member of an employee, officer, or contractor providing services to the district. For purposes of this subparagraph, a close family member shall be defined as a parent, sibling, or nondependent child, and an immediate family member shall be defined as a spouse, spouse equivalent, or dependent (whether or not related). Please submit by 5:00 PM on 10/23/26 to the BOE Clerk and Secretary, Millie Bonilla, at mbonilla@nredlearn.org. Candidates will be recommended by the audit committee and thereafter appointed by the BOE. Thank you to everyone who considers volunteering their time and expertise in support of our students, schools, and community. Your participation helps ensure that our district continues to operate with the highest standards of accountability and transparency. Athletics Varsity Football New Rochelle 39, Mt. Vernon 14 New Rochelle 39, Yonkers 22 3-0 record for the season Girls Swimming New Rochelle 75, Wappingers Falls 95 Girls Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 0, Clarkstown North 3 New Rochelle 1, Ketcham 1 New Rochelle 0, White Plains 2 New Rochelle 4, Ossining 2 Girls Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 8, White Plains 1 New Rochelle 1, Mamaroneck 2 New Rochelle 6, Ossining 0 Boys Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 3, Port Chester 2 New Rochelle 2, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 4, Mt. Vernon 1 New Rochelle 1, Mamaroneck 1 New Rochelle 2, Newburgh Free Academy 4 Boys Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 6, Walter Panas 0 New Rochelle 1, Mamaroneck 1 Girls Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 3, Yonkers Middle High 1 New Rochelle 3, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 2, Port Chester 3 New Rochelle 1, Mamaroneck 3 New Rochelle 3, Irvington 0 New Rochelle 3, Mt. Vernon 0 Girls Junior Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 2, Yorktown B 0 New Rochelle 2, Yonkers Middle High 0 New Rochelle 2, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 0, Mamaroneck 2 New Rochelle 2, Mt. Vernon 0 Boys Volleyball New Rochelle 2, Valhalla 3 New Rochelle 0, Tappan Zee 3 New Rochelle 3, North Rockland 1 New Rochelle 3, Yonkers 0 New Rochelle 3, Mt. Vernon 0 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, Oct 01 2026

News from Our Schools: September 17

News from Our Schools September 17, 2026 National Merit Semifinalist Named New Rochelle High School senior Justin Binu Daniel has been named a semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship competition, placing him among the nation’s top academic achievers. Daniel was among 16,000 semifinalists out of 1.2 million high school juniors who entered the 2027 scholarship contest by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for about 6,700 National Merit Scholarships worth approximately $24 million that will be offered next spring. "I was surprised to be named a semifinalist due to how competitive the program is," Daniel said, adding that he "studied a lot" to prepare for it. As for his parents, Daniel said they were excited by the news but focused more on the work he did to become a semifinalist than the accomplishment itself. Daniel said he would like to study mechanical engineering in college because he likes solving problems. A member of the high school's Wind Symphony, Daniel also helps run the Model United Nations Club, mentors underclassmen in the Ignite Program, and tutors and volunteers through honor societies. To become a finalist the semifinalist and a high school official must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received. A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT® or ACT® scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. Welcome Back to School! New Rochelle High School Musicians Named to All-State Photo L to R: Jonah Choi, Penelope Conway, Campbell Edwards, and Jackson Cavanaugh Two New Rochelle High School students have been selected to perform in this year’s New York State School Music Association All-State Conference, with two additional students named as alternates. Seniors Jonah Choi (wind ensemble, flute 2) and Penelope Conway (symphony orchestra, violin 2) were selected for the honor, while juniors Campbell Edwards (alto 2, vocal) and Jackson Cavanaugh (cello) were named alternates. The students were chosen from thousands of applicants statewide based on their top scores during NYSSMA’s solo evaluations. "I was very surprised to be selected as having amazing scores in All State auditions still doesn't guarantee acceptance," said Choi, adding that he was grateful to have achieved one of his greatest aspirations for high school. “This is a tremendous accomplishment for our students and a wonderful reflection of the strength of our Performing & Visual Arts Program,” said Matthew M. Lucero, director of PreK-12 Performing and Visual Arts. “It also speaks to the dedication of our music teachers in preparing and supporting students as they develop the skills necessary to perform at this level.” Choi credited his music teacher, Scott Byers, with playing a significant role in preparing him for NYSSMA. "The interpretation and intonation skills I acquired by playing roles in very difficult music allowed me to properly open my ears on how to make beautiful music." The 2026 NYSSMA Winter Conference will take place in Rochester, NY, from December 3-6. It will also feature the invited performance of our NRHS Wind Symphony, making this an especially exciting year for New Rochelle at the NYSSMA All-State Conference. IEYMS Students Remember September 11 Victims with Symbols of Peace With each careful fold, students at Isaac E. Young Middle School transformed sheets of paper into symbols of peace and remembrance, creating dozens of origami cranes to honor those who lost their lives in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Led by middle school art teachers Michael Fry, Jennifer Degiacomo and Isabel Santiago, the lesson gave students a hands-on way to reflect on the tragedy of 9/11. It also helped them to understand how art can be used to send a message. A 9/11 Museum inspiration reads: “In Japan, the paper crane or origami crane is a symbol of peace, hope, and healing. There is also a legend that says if you fold 1, 000 paper cranes, you will be granted a wish or recover from an injury. Shortly after the attacks, a replica of the Statue of Liberty appeared outside a firehouse in midtown Manhattan. It was soon covered from torch to toe with tributes, including paper cranes, uniform patches, flags, notes, souvenirs, and other mementos from passersby. This statue continues to remind us of the community of people that came together after the attacks to spread hope and healing." This inspired the art teachers to lead students in making the cranes as a meaningful exercise. The activity served as a reminder of the importance of kindness, peace, and the possibilities for a stronger, more compassionate future. Some of the red, white, and blue cranes were organized in the shape of the American Flag. Columbus Observes 9/11 With Tree of Hope At Columbus Elementary Magnet School, students and teachers observed Sept. 11 by reading aloud the books “This Very Tree” by Sean Rubin and “Fireboat” by Maira Kalman. “This Very Tree” is about a pear tree that stood between the Twin Towers in the 1990s. The tree provided shade for people and a home for birds. On Sept. 11, the tree was buried beneath rubble. In the weeks that followed, Ground Zero workers clearing the debris discovered that the tree had survived. It was then dubbed the “Survivor Tree” and moved to the Bronx to recover before later being moved back and re-planted at the 9/11 Memorial. “This Very Tree” is a story of community, resilience, and renewal. “Fireboat” is the story of the John J. Harvey, a retired fireboat that helped fight the fires at Ground Zero on Sept. 11. When fire hydrants at Ground Zero were rendered inoperable, the New York City Fire Department called on the Harvey for help. The boat’s volunteer crew pumped water from the Hudson River to help fight fires at the site. It is a heroic and uplifting story of the vitality of a retired ship and its crew. “The books help students not only understand the extraordinary, tragic events in our history, but also learn about the immense love and unity the country felt afterward,” said fifth grade teacher Antoinette Koehler. “As educators, we understand the importance of teaching students about that fateful day but also the resilience of our nation in the days afterward.” To mark the 25th anniversary of the tragic events of Sept. 11, Columbus fifth grade students created a “tree of hope.” Each student wrote what they hoped for people directly affected by 9/11 or for the world. Here are some of the grade 5 students’ messages: “My hope for you is that you never give up and be positive.” “I hope everyone is happy.” “I’m sorry that happened to you. Don’t let sadness surround you.” “I hope that tree is still growing.” “I hope that the people who lost their life will be remembered, and remember them as an honor.” Lev Goldsmith Sworn In as Student Representative on the Board of Education New Rochelle High School senior Lev Goldsmith is officially part of the City School District of New Rochelle Board of Education. Goldsmith was sworn in by Board President Makeda Lewis during the Sept. 10 meeting at New Rochelle High School’s Linda E. Kelly Theatre. Goldsmith’s term is from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds, who has already met with Goldsmith, congratulated him on his appointment. “I welcome you. It has been a pleasure working with you thus far, and I’m looking forward to a very positive year with your involvement in this civic duty,” said Dr. Reynolds. Goldsmith praised the school district for its committed faculty and staff who care deeply about students, and for the myriad opportunities students are offered both in the classroom and beyond. “I look forward to doing my part to help Board members see issues from a wide range of perspectives - especially student perspectives. It means taking the time to learn more, dig deeper, and better understand the issues facing our district,” said Goldsmith. “With those ingredients and real collaboration, we will continue to improve the school experience, not just for NRHS students, but for all students across the district. I made a promise to my peers during my campaign to ensure that each and every one of their voices is heard, and I plan to make sure that promise becomes a reality.” Goldsmith said he looks forward to working with the superintendent and board trustees throughout the coming year to ensure that New Rochelle schools continue to thrive and be the school community that students and staff love. Albert Leonard Welcomes New Interim Assistant Principal Albert Leonard Middle School has a new administrator. The City School District of New Rochelle Board of Trustees approved Interim Assistant Principal Grisel Cordero at its Sept. 10 meeting. “I am beyond thrilled and deeply honored to be the ALMS Interim Assistant Principal,” said Cordero. “Joining the vibrant ALMS community is a privilege, and I am already so impressed by the warmth, energy, and dedication that make this school such a special place for our children.” Interim Assistant Principal Cordero’s background includes 15 years of experience in middle school education, from a classroom teacher to a school-based leader with experience in instructional leadership, student support, assessment, professional development, school culture, and family engagement in the New York City Department of Education. Cordero is looking forward to bringing her experiences into a diverse middle school community and to contributing as a member of the leadership team at Albert Leonard Middle School. High School Teacher Carmen Glenn named 2026 MacArthur Foundation Climate and Equity Teacher Fellow New Rochelle High School teacher Carmen Glenn was named a 2026 MacArthur Foundation Climate and Equity Teacher Fellow, an honor she will carry into the classroom to benefit students. Glenn, one of only 18 teachers selected nationwide, took part in the 2026 Climate and Equity Institute, held at the Schoodic Institute, in Acadia National Park on the coast of Maine from July 26 to Aug. 1. The participating teachers joined a growing network of teacher-leaders who are pioneering ways to help students see the science of climate change in its human context. “Climate change and equity are inextricably linked through causes, effects and solutions,” Glenn said. “Most recently, the flooding caused by a glacier collapse in Nepal shows that impacts can affect people who are not the main responsible parties for climate change.” The institute began with a day of teachers sharing their expertise and experience on ways to engage students in the subject of climate change and equity. It also featured sessions on place (urban, suburban or rural), indigenous perspectives, youth action and voice, and dealing with emotion and trauma when teaching about climate change. Glenn said the most compelling lessons she took away from the week were that “climate grief and anxiety are real and affect all of us; that the solutions to the climate crisis are going to be different in different places; and that indigenous ecological knowledge can teach us about solutions.” The Institute was conducted by TERC, an internationally recognized STEM education institution located in Cambridge, MA (https://www.terc.edu), under the sponsorship of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. In the coming year, the Climate and Equity Institute teachers will continue networking with their colleagues across the country, and with the TERC team. They will contribute to a growing knowledge of best practices for teaching climate and equity for an informed and engaged citizenry. Sights and Sounds from Around the District Rooted in Community Congratulations to Henry Barnard School Principal Shelli Owens for being honored at Better Way's Rooted in Community Breakfast on September 4. The event honored New Rochelleans who show up, pour in, give back, and believe that our youth deserve every opportunity to dream, grow, and thrive. It is a well-deserved honor! Athletics Boys Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 2, John Jay-East Fishkill 1 New Rochelle 4, Ossining 0 New Rochelle 4, North Rockland 1 Boys Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 3, White Plains 0 New Rochelle 5, North Rockland 2 Junior Varsity Soccer B New Rochelle 5, Roosevelt 0 New Rochelle 6, Yonkers Middle School 0 Girls Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 0, Scarsdale 3 New Rochelle 3, Yonkers Montessori Academy 0 New Rochelle 1, Ursuline 3 Girls Swimming New Rochelle 110, Yonkers 58 Girls Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 3, North Salem 3 New Rochelle 1, Horace Greeley 1 New Rochelle 0, Scarsdale 3 Girls Junior Varsity Soccer New Rochelle 2, Ursuline 0 New Rochelle 0, North Rockland 0 New Rochelle 5, Clarkstown North 0 New Rochelle 7, Valhalla 0 Varsity Football New Rochelle 23, Kellenberg 21 Boys Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 3, Fox Lane 2 Girls Junior Varsity Volleyball New Rochelle 1, Scarsdale 2 New Rochelle 2, Yonkers Montessori Academy 0 New Rochelle 2, Ursuline 0 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, Sep 17 2026

News From Our Schools: September 3, 2026

News from Our Schools September 3, 2026 Congratulations, Graduates! On Monday, August 24, the Class of 2026 graduated an additional 22 students, bringing this year’s total to 612. The ceremony took place in the recently renovated Whitney M. Young Auditorium at New Rochelle High School. Administrators praised the graduates for their fortitude and determination in meeting their goal of earning their diploma. They highlighted the many obstacles the graduates overcame to achieve that hard-won success and encouraged them to apply that tenacity in meeting future goals. "With the support of your family, your friends, your teachers and administrators, coupled with your hard work and dedication – you’ve made all of us, and, I hope, yourselves proud today," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. "You held strong. You pushed through. And today, we get to celebrate you. We are gathered here today to celebrate a monumental, hard-won achievement. Today, you cross this stage not simply as students, but as the newest alumni of New Rochelle High School." "You are ready to go out into the world as the citizens, the workers, and the thinkers of tomorrow," said Principal Dr. Dagoberto Artilies. "But you will always be part of us, and you will always have a home at New Rochelle High School. We are immeasurably proud of you, all you have already accomplished, and all you will do in the years ahead." The graduates and their families enjoyed a brief celebration following the event with photos and refreshments to mark the occasion. New Rochelle Tops Journal News Varsity Soccer Section 1 Elite List Photo credit: Will Moskowitz-Urbas The Journal News has named seven New Rochelle High School Seniors to its list of the top 100 varsity soccer players in Section 1 - more players than any other Section 1 high school. In the top 100 list are Emmanuel Gonzalez, Nathan Grandwetter, Damian Torres, and David Lore, with Ethan Shaw being named one of the top 30 players in Section 1, and Adrian Medina and Josemiguel Ayala named in the top 11 Section 1 players. “We are very proud of these boys for earning such prestigious nominations and selections,” said Boys Varsity Soccer Head Coach Jarohan Garcia. “Their talent is evident and bodes well for the upcoming season. We can’t wait to see them on the pitch.” At last week’s soccer team tryouts, a whopping 194 student athletes registered to be part of one of the four boys’ soccer high school teams, setting an all-time record! “We’re looking forward to a great season for this year’s athletes and to a strong future for the soccer program,” said Coach Garcia. High School Wind Symphony to Perform at State School Music Association Winter Conference The New Rochelle High School Wind Symphony has been invited to perform at the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Winter Conference in Rochester, NY. The Wind Symphony, under the direction of band teacher Scott Byers, will perform on December 4. To be considered, school ensembles must submit recent performance recordings along with concert programs from previous performances for review by a selection committee. Only one high school band in the entire state was selected to perform at the conference and represent New York State. “Selection to perform at the NYSSMA Winter Conference is highly competitive. The NRHS Wind Symphony was chosen from among many outstanding ensemble applicants from across New York State,” said K-12 PAVE Director Matthew Lucero. “This is an extraordinary accomplishment for the City School District of New Rochelle and our Performing and Visual Arts Program.” The annual NYSSMA Winter Conference is New York State's premier professional development conference for music educators, school and arts administrators, bringing together thousands of educators, higher education faculty, performing organizations, and industry partners from across the state. The conference also serves as the performance venue for New York's All-State student ensembles, making it one of the state's most prestigious celebrations of music education. Performing at the conference allows students to showcase their exceptional skills while highlighting the excellence of our music program before one of the most distinguished audiences in music education in New York State. Eco Ambassadors Explore the Environment While many high school students spent the summer working in camps or retail stores or just lounging by a pool, a select group of New Rochelle High School students were working for the New Rochelle Youth Bureau as Eco Ambassadors at Five Islands Park. As Eco Ambassadors, the students spent six weeks learning techniques for monitoring water quality and observing and cataloguing marine life such as crabs, oysters, mussels, and many other marine species. They also learned how to incorporate technology to gain a greater understanding of what can lie beneath the surface of the water, all under the guidance of New Rochelle science teachers Jonathan LaRosa and Carmen Glenn. To participate, students had to apply to the “Learn and Earn” program offered by the Youth Bureau of New Rochelle. In all, there were 18 students and three college interns who are usually New Rochelle graduates. “The program also featured field trips, guest speakers and a culminating research project,” said LaRosa, who has been running Eco Ambassadors for five years. “It is a pretty robust program designed to expose students to marine science.” While the program doesn’t track participants, students have gone on to study environmental science, animal science, and marine science at their respective colleges. It has also driven students to become interested in joining Glenn's Green Club at New Rochelle High School where they continue to practice environmental activism. Among other things, students learned how to use a seine net to sample small fish and other nearshore aquatic life. They also monitored oyster, ribbed mussel, fiddler crab, Asian shore crab and native mud crab populations in the salt marsh. Students used a SeaPerch submersible robot which was built by a group of students last year and sonar devices to gather data by combining the two technologies. The students finished their six week experience with a gallery walk of six outstanding projects. They were honored at New Rochelle City Hall and received certificates from local officials for their hard work. The program is funded through a grant from the Long Island Sound Community Impact fund. The grant was secured through our partnership with the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center. Huguenot Academy Opens in New Location Huguenot Academy, New Rochelle High School’s alternative program, has a new home at the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s Remington Clubhouse in the city’s historic Lincoln Avenue Corridor. The new location is at 1 Remington Place in New Rochelle. In addition to our new location, classes will now begin at 8:15 a.m. and end at 2:45 p.m. The bright, versatile space will allow the academy’s 54 students to attend academic classes and physical education classes under one roof, creating a seamless experience and saving the school district approximately $138,000 per year. Before the move, the school district leased two separate spaces. “Finding the right location for this important program was a top priority for the district,” said Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. “We could not be happier with the move to Remington Clubhouse, a site that offers the best opportunities for our students and staff while being cost-effective.” The lease 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 existing before- and after-school community programs at the clubhouse. Huguenot Academy Director Dr. Merica Neufville said students and staff were both excited about the move. The new lease strengthens an already strong partnership between the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle and the City School District of New Rochelle. The New School Year Brings New Administrators, Roles to the School District There are some new faces in the school district this school year, and some familiar faces starting new roles. The City School District of New Rochelle (CSDNR) Board of Education (BOE) appointed Dr. Camille Edwards-Thomas as Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services, following the retirement of Dr. Gail Joyner. Dr. Edwards-Thomas began her career in education as an elementary teacher in Mount Vernon before coming to New Rochelle in 2008. She was a House Principal at New Rochelle High School before becoming Principal of Albert Leonard Middle School, where she served for five years. Dr. Julio Vazquez has been named Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources. Dr. Vazquez succeeds Joan Garone in the position, who retired at the end of last school year. Dr. Vazquez joins New Rochelle from the North Salem Central School District, where he spent the past 11 years, as Director of Instruction and Human Resources and Director of Curriculum, Instruction & Assessment following a tenure as Assistant Principal. Before that, he worked for the Wappingers Central School District and Newburgh Enlarged School District. James Heubel was appointed Director of Facilities, filling a vacancy created by the retirement of Keith Watkins. Heubel is a seasoned Facilities Director with more than 15 years of leadership in educational infrastructure and capital project management. He formerly served as the Director of Facilities and Operations for Putnam-Northern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). From 2018-2023, Heubel served as the Assistant Director of Facilities for the City School District of New Rochelle, playing a pivotal role in the school district’s operational transformation and in coordinating the $106 million capital project to upgrade and modernize district facilities. Kathryn “Katie” Castellano is the new principal of Daniel Webster Elementary School, succeeding Melissa Passarelli, who retired in June. Castellano has an extensive background in elementary education, serving most recently as principal of Roosevelt School in the Ossining Union Free School District. She was previously an assistant principal at Ossining’s Claremont School, an English as a New Language (ENL) Coordinator at P.S. 105, District 11, in the Bronx, and served 17 years as an elementary educator in the New York City Department of Education. Castellano also served a five-year term as a trustee of the City School District Board of Education. Collin Smith is starting the school year as Interim Principal at Albert Leonard Middle School (ALMS), filling the vacancy left by Dr. Edwards-Thomas’s promotion to Assistant Superintendent. Mr. Smith came to ALMS following an 18-year career at his alma mater, Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx. He was a teacher, volunteer coach, dean of students, and assistant principal of student affairs before coming to the City School District of New Rochelle. During his 4 years with CSDNR, Mr. Smith has served as Dean of Student Life and Assistant Principal at ALMS. Assistant Principal Keren-Hapuc Gonzalez is temporarily stepping into the role of Acting Principal, assuming all duties and authority to lead the Ward community forward. Having dedicated the past two years to Ward students as Assistant Principal, Acting Principal Gonzalez is uniquely equipped to guide our Ward family into a vibrant, successful year. Jenna Mazzilli Vaccarelli has joined Ward Elementary School as Assistant Principal. She served as Interim Assistant Principal at Ward during the 2023-2024 school year. She then taught fifth grade at the International School at Dundee in Greenwich, Connecticut. We are pleased to welcome her back to New Rochelle and Ward! Spataro and Lucero Earn Tenure Two City School District of New Rochelle administrators were recently granted tenure following a unanimous vote by the Board of Education at its Aug. 18 meeting. Salvatore Spataro, assistant principal at Jefferson Elementary School, and Matthew Lucero, director of Pre K-12 Performing and Visual Arts Education (PAVE), both received tenure recommendations from Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. Spataro joined the district in 2014 as a classroom teacher at Columbus Elementary School before stepping into his administrative role at Jefferson in 2022. “I am grateful and honored to be granted tenure at the recommendation of Principal Nieves, Superintendent Reynolds, and the Board of Education,” said Spataro. “Answering the call to serve the children of this school district and Jefferson Elementary School has been a privilege and an adventure, and I look forward to continuing to lead them in their educational journey.” Lucero joined New Rochelle in 2019 after serving as a music educator and K-12 music department chair in Nyack Public Schools. He initially served as assistant principal at Albert Leonard Middle School before taking on his current role as director of preK-12 performing and visual arts education in 2023. “Leading our districtwide arts programs in New Rochelle has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career,” said Lucero. “I am incredibly grateful to our district leadership for granting me tenure and for their confidence in the work we are doing to support and grow the arts across our schools. It is a privilege to work alongside our talented students and dedicated arts educators, and I am proud of all that we have accomplished together and the opportunities we continue to create for our students.” Westchester County Announces OMNY Card Rates and Changes The Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation has important transportation updates regarding Bee-Line Bus Service for middle and high school students. Families whose students wish to ride Bee-Line buses to school must purchase OMNY cards before students board public transportation. The County installed contactless OMNY fare scanners on all buses earlier this year and now requires students to swipe their OMNY card each time they board. The MTA has increased the cost of an OMNY card this year to $70 per student per month (up from $58 per student per month last school year). The new cards may be used for transportation seven days a week - not just on school days - and will be good for up to four rides per day for the entire year. The MTA today informed us that the cards are ready and will be available in your child’s school next week. For any questions regarding Bee-Line schedules or OMNY card purchases, please contact the Westchester County Department of Public Works and Transportation at 914-813-7777, or email beeline@westchesterCountyNY.gov. Please note that the CSDNR is not involved in Bee-Line bus scheduling, stops, or OMNY card rates. Working together, we can enjoy a safe and streamlined beginning of the school year for students and families. Middle and High School Interim Progress Reports and Report Cards Going Digital The 2026-2027 school year brings a change in how middle school and high school students' Interim Progress Reports and Report Cards will be delivered to families. The Interim Progress Reports and Report Cards will still be available through the Home Access Center (HAC) (QR Code left), but will also be distributed electronically through ParentSquare, providing another secure and convenient way for families to receive them. All families are encouraged to take advantage of these online resources to have timely access to important information about their child's academic progress. Families who have limited access to technology or prefer to receive printed copies of their child's Interim Progress Reports and Report Cards may request to receive paper copies by completing a form here. Once the request is received, printed copies will be sent home with your child throughout the school year. “Digitizing these reports and sending them electronically is part of the City School District of New Rochelle's ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs,” said Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. “This change aligns with our commitment to reducing printing and mailing expenses while continuing to provide families with convenient access to student information.” Information on accessing the Home Access Center, resetting your password, or creating a new HAC account is provided below. Families can also print copies of these documents within the HAC. Home Access Center (HAC) Already have an HAC account? Log in here Need to reset your password? Reset it here Need to create an HAC account? Register here Have general questions about Home Access Center? Please contact the District's Home Access Center support team at nrhomeaccess@nredlearn.org. Alumni Spotlight: Middle School Inspiration Brings New Rochelle Alumnus Back Home For Dr. Gabriel Ferreira, returning to New Rochelle is not just a career milestone - it’s a homecoming driven by a purpose born right in his childhood neighborhood. In 1997 and 1998, as an Isaac E. Young Middle School student, Dr. Ferreira was inspired to pursue medicine through a unique collaboration between IEYMS and Sound Shore Medical Center (now Montefiore New Rochelle). The Regents Biology class allowed students to gain experiences in health sciences. About 30 IEYMS students participated in the program. Students were assigned a disease and topic and spent the academic year working with doctors in the community to research that disease. "The work involved multiple projects and presentations and culminated at the end of the year with a seminar where we all presented what we had learned," said Dr. Ferreira. The hospital then sponsored each of the students to go to a science-based summer camp after middle school. The Regents Biology program drew Dr. Ferreira to health care and revealed a striking reality: the Hispanic community was a leading demographic at risk of glaucoma. Deeply concerned for his West End neighborhood, that early realization sparked a lifelong vocation in ophthalmology, specializing in glaucoma and cataract treatment. After completing his medical degree at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Dr. Ferreira became a board-certified, fellowship-trained glaucoma surgeon. Today, he is among a select group of fellowship-trained glaucoma specialists in New York, offering comprehensive care from early diagnosis and medical management to advanced, next-generation surgical interventions. Last May, Dr. Ferreira brought his expertise back home to New Rochelle, opening the Northern Manhattan Eye Center - Westchester at 145 Huguenot Street. “Opening an office in New Rochelle has truly been a dream come true for me,” said Dr. Ferreira. “Having grown up in New Rochelle and having received my education here, I have always felt a strong connection to this community. Delivering exceptional, compassionate care to my hometown is extraordinarily meaningful to me.” In addition to caring for local patients on Mondays and Wednesdays, Dr. Ferreira remains at the forefront of ophthalmic innovation. His research contributions, involvement in cutting-edge medical trials, and work with leading med-tech companies have made him one of the few American surgeons invited to participate in select global innovation trials, contributing early insights that help shape the future of bio-interventional eye care and next-generation surgical techniques. Dr. Ferreira practices at North Manhattan Eye Center, where his mission is to blend state-of-the-art technology with personalized, heartfelt patient care for the New Rochelle and northern Manhattan communities, and beyond. Sights and Sounds from Around the District Making a Splash in Extended School Year Students Dive Into an "Under the Sea" Summer! 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, Sep 03 2026

News from Our Schools: June 26, 2026

News from Our Schools June 26, 2026 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. 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