The many months of rehearsing were evident during the Spring Concert Part II held at the Willow Road School.
The concert known as the Beginners Concert included third-grade students who have been learning to play the recorder during this school year, the fifth and sixth-grade Glee Club and fourth-grade students who have been practicing with the orchestra and band for less than a year.
The concert also included a short demonstration of dances performed by fourth-grade students who participated in the school’s PTA sponsored program, Dancing Classrooms. Under the direction of hard working and devoted teachers, Ms. Cynthia Shannon and Mrs. Kristan Nordquist, Willow Road's talented students presented another impressive concert.
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Music Filled the Air
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Talent Galore
Willow's Got Talent was the sign prominently displayed above the doors as students entered the gym for Willow Road School's talent show. It quickly became evident that the sign was correct as the students showcased their many talents on stage to the delight of the audience.
Some of the entertainment included singing, dancing, juggling, a hula-hoop extraordinaire, a School of Rock band and even a math lesson. Every act, whatever the talent displayed, captivated and entertained the audience and confirmed that the students at Willow Road School are definitely talented in many ways.
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Wheeler Concludes Successful PARP Program with Carnival
Students at Wheeler Avenue Elementary School were treated to fun and games, courtesy of PTA members who were involved with the school’s Parents as Reading Partners program. The outside of the school was transformed into a carnival that featured activities for all to enjoy.
Each spring as the last day of school approaches, Wheeler culminates the year’s successful PARP program with a special event. This year, it was decided that a carnival would provide an exciting way to celebrate the excellent emphasis on reading that helped students strengthen their literacy skills.
Students visited the carnival by grade level and all had the opportunity to tour the booths and participate in games of their choice. They received tickets to eventually exchange for prizes, just as a traditional carnival fair would offer. Activities such as hula-hoop competitions and the Limbo were among the day’s highlights, and a DJ provided musical entertainment. Parent volunteers assisted with the game stations, contests and prize distribution.
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Notice to the Residents of the Willow Road School
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A Time for Memories and Dreams
The James A. Dever sixth-grade moving up ceremony provided the perfect setting for students to reflect upon the past and to look toward the future with a sense of confidence and excitement.
James A. Dever Principal Darren Gruen welcomed everyone to an evening filled with emotions. Parents, some trying to hold back tears, watched a photo montage of their children as they looked in kindergarten and how they look today. Photos of school activities, sure to remain fond memories that will last a lifetime, were also shared.
In addition to the proud parents and family members, guests included Board of Education President Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Vice President Patricia Farrell, Board Trustees Joseph DiSibio and Vinny Pandit, Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn and Assistant Superintendent for Business and Human Resources Gerard Antoine.
All eyes were focused on the students as they proceeded toward the stage at the start of the moving up ceremony held at the Elmont Public Library.
“Remember you are an original,” said Evelyn. “Be protective of your honesty, work hard, make a commitment to success, dream big and have a dream worth following.”
Board of Education Trustee Joseph DiSibio noted his amazement at how the students had transformed from the first day of kindergarten to where they are today. On behalf of the Board of Education he stated, “Your faces are filled with excitement, confidence, pride and a little apprehension about the future. You are a testament to your teachers, staff, parents and community who have created the foundation for your success. Congratulations on a job well done. You have already made us proud.”
Following several musical performances, one by one the students were announced and proudly walked across the stage to receive their certificates.
Principal Darren Gruen concluded the ceremony by sharing how honored he was to be the principal of the James A. Dever School. “Tonight, we recognize you and celebrate the end of a wonderful journey and new beginnings.” After sharing several words of wisdom and advice, he added, “I am extremely proud of all of you and hope you are proud of yourselves. Remember me, your teachers and all the fond memories we have made together to last a lifetime.”
Following the ceremony, the students and their guests gather together to enjoy a final celebration including a special cake and other tasty treats.
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Looking Toward a Bright Future
Parents and invited guests filled the Elmont Public Library auditorium in anticipation of the start of the Willow Road School sixth-grade moving up ceremony. Board of Education President Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Vice President Patricia Farrell, board trustees Frank Chiachiere, Pd.D., William P. Stris and Vinny Pandit, Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn and Interim Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum, Assessment and Technology Shirley E. Martin, Ed.D. were also in attendance.
Before the students marched into the auditorium, the audience enjoyed a special video featuring photos of classmates and friends, their most memorable events along with students’ fondest recollections of the time spent in the Willow Road School.
Following the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the Star-Spangled Banner, Toni Pomerantz addressed the students. “Tonight marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another for both you and your principal Stephanie Capozzoli. As she retires, you will forever have the unique distinction of being her last graduating class.” Pomerantz also shared some humorous words of advice from the book “Everything I Need to Know I Learned from a Little Golden Book” by Diane Muldrow. In conclusion she added, “Remember to stop and smell the strawberries; work hard, play hard, but not too hard; be proud of your country and don't let the parade pass you by. On behalf of the board of education, we wish you much happiness and success in the future.”
Constance Evelyn shared that she could not help but notice how kind and nurturing the students have been to their classmates and others. She advised the students that change will happen all the time and that it is happening right now. “Before you leave, remember you are an original,” she said. “Work hard, be thoughtful and make an enduring commitment to achieving excellence. If you are afraid of the thorns, you will miss the roses. Dream big. Having a dream worth following is the best way to find yourself.” She concluded by sharing how proud she was of all the students for achieving this milestone and graduating from sixth grade.“We give you back your children, the same children you entrusted in our care,” began Willow Road Principal Stephanie Capozzoli in her final address to the sixth-grade class. It was our pleasure and privilege to watch their personalities unfold.” She added, “As you move on, build upon the Willow Road foundation, have the courage to follow your own path and your dreams. You are the carriers of the light, our nation’s children. Go forward with conviction and confidence.”
Student Council President Federico Ruperto, Vice President Melanie Gangi and Secretary Dominick DeLutri reminisced and shared their classmates’ fondest memories including field trips and participating in the Empire Games.
The time everyone was waiting for arrived as the students were announced and one by one received their certificates from Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Constance D. Evelyn and Stephanie Capozzoli ready and prepared to succeed in the future.
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Let’s Have a Round of Applause
The sounds of students clapping filled the halls at Willow Road School as the students paid a final tribute to the sixth grade graduating class during the school’s Clap Out.
Students and teachers clapped loudly and extended their fond farewells and best wishes as the sixth-graders proudly marched around the school one last time. The students also recognized their principal Stephanie Capozzoli, who will be retiring at the end of the school year. It was a loud and memorable send off that will certainly be remembered.
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Celebrating Success, Looking Toward the Future
The Elmont Public Library was filled with green and white as parents and invited guests watched the procession of sixth-grade students from Howell Road School enter the auditorium at the start of the school’s moving up ceremony. Board of Education President Antoinette “Toni” Pomerantz, Vice President Patricia Farrell and board trustees Frank Chiachiere, Ph.D., William P. Striss and Vinny Pandit along with Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn and Assistant Superintendent for Business and Human Resources Gerard Antoine were also in attendance.
Prior to the students’ arrival, the audience was treated to a special video containing the students’ baby photos and photos showing how they look today. Everyone enjoyed viewing the baby photos and trying to guess who they were.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance and singing the national anthem, lead by student Henna Zafar, students Jada Alleyne and Katelyn Persaud spoke on behalf of their classmates and shared fond memories including attending the opera, roller skating and building gingerbread houses together.
“The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and to change,” said Superintendent of School Constance D. Evelyn. “Your thinking is mindful, authentic and courageous. Always make your choices wisely. If you ask anyone who has achieved some measure of success, they will tell you to work hard, be thorough and be committed to excellence,” she added. She then shared a few words of wisdom including “Swing higher by pumping harder, each of you has a special gift, and remember doing what is right has never failed to strengthen our spirit. Congratulations for achieving your graduation.”
Board of Education trustee Frank Chiachiere, Ph.D. congratulated the students on behalf of the board of education. “You are the generation known as the Digital Natives and will contribute to making our world a better place,” he said. He also shared a few words of advice from “Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten” by Rev. Robert Fulghum including “Share everything, play fair and be aware of wonder.” She continued, “I wish you a world filled with wonder. God Bless you, your families and our country.”
Several times during the program, the students showcased their musical talents by singing several songs. Sixth-grade student Miles Fortuno had the distinction of presenting the class gift to the school. This year, the class presented a beautifully framed replica of Pablo Picasso’s painting “Petite Fleurs.” He noted the symbolism of the hands holding the flowers and compared the hands to their parents and teachers and the flowers to the students as they grow and learn. “As we become the next generation of adults, we will be the hands holding the flowers,” he added. The artwork, painted by Picasso in 1958, will certainly be a beautiful addition to the Howell Road School.
Howell Road School Principal Frank Huplosky noted that it was an honor and privilege to be the school’s principal and that the students were ending a wonderful journey, but about to begin a new and exciting one. “There is no such thing as failure,” he said. “Failure is just life moving us in a different direction. You are very different from other generations before you. You are on track to become the most educated generation. The world is an amazing place, pursue your dreams and respect yourself and others. Best of luck and continue to make us proud.”
As the students’ names were announced, they walked across the stage and were recognized by board trustee Frank Chiachiere and Superintendent Constance D. Evelyn. Student Lindsey Jacob shared the appreciation and sentiments of the class. “Our teachers have prepared us for the future. We look forward to being an inspiration to others.” A special thank you was also extended to music teacher Michael Rodgers for his years of service.
The students concluded the program by proudly singing “We’ll Remember Howell Road” and then joined their families to celebrate this momentous event.
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First of Many Milestones
Howell Road kindergarten students celebrated the end of the school year with a moving up exercise that signified their readiness to transition to first grade.
Family, friends, teachers and administrators, including Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn, gathered together to share in their first elementary school milestone.
After weeks of rehearsing and preparation, the students proudly made their processional entrance to the applause of an emotional audience. The students entertained the audience with several songs and then the kindergartners were individually called to walk across the stage and receive their certificates of accomplishment. Parents and invited guests added their enthusiastic applause to signify the importance of this first academic milestone.
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Best Day for Wheeler Avenue
Sixth-graders from Wheeler Avenue School participated in their closing exercises held at the Bert Keller Auditorium of Valley Stream Central High School. The audience was filled with mixed emotions as they eagerly awaited the students’ arrival. The ceremony featured reflections from one member of each classroom; performances from the jazz ensemble; a choral rendition of “The Best Day of My Life;” and celebratory speeches from Principal Dr. Gayle Steele, Board of Education Vice President Patricia Farrell, PTA Co-President Vita Fratarcangeli and Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn.“The parents here should be proud of all that their children have accomplished, and students, you should be proud too. Your hard work has resulted in your readiness to move on and I am confident that you will be great in middle school and beyond,” said Principal Dr. Steele. “Excelling in education is not easy, it is not a spectator sport or activity, you have to reach out and take hold of opportunities that are presented to you. Don’t be afraid to be different; it is your differences that will help you succeed.”
Between the reflections shared by the students of their days at Wheeler Avenue School, Board of Education trustee Patricia Farrell spoke to the students on behalf of the board. “Whether you came to Wheeler in first grade or sixth grade, the memories you have and the friendships you have made will all hold a special place in the place where all of us keep our special memories - in our hearts.” She went on to share a moving story about making a difference in the lives of others and on behalf of the board congratulated the students. “We celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to your bright and successful future. It’s your time, go out and make a difference.”
Superintendent of Schools Constance D. Evelyn also congratulated the students. “Your achievement of this incredible milestone fills us with joy, pride and anticipation,” she said. “Change is happening all the time, even now. Goggle has become a verb in your lifetime. Remember, before you Google it, you are an original and your thinking is mindful, authentic and it can be courageous. Stand tall and strong in your beliefs and believe in yourself. We are all very proud of you for earning your graduation from sixth grade.”
Following the presentation of certificates, the students sang the Wheeler Avenue School song “Ode Triumphant” one last time before joining their families to celebrate their achievements.
Prior to the moving up ceremony, during a separate program held at the school, students Roy Longarzo and Sahannah Seemungal received the Junior Public Service Award and the Leadership Award from Senator Todd Kaminsky.
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Valley Stream #13 School Budget Passed
Proposition 1 2012-2013 School Budget PASSED 1230 YES Votes 761 NO Votes
Proposition 2 Increase Transportation Eligibility FAILED 640 YES Votes 1276 NO Votes
Proposition 3 Central High School District 2012-2013 Budget PASSED 1126 YES Votes 750 NO Votes
Board Trustee Election: Jeanne Greco Jacobs 1371 YES Votes
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Before School Welcome for New Teachers
On August 28, the district welcomed eight new teachers during Staff Orientation Day at James A. Dever Elementary School, one week before students return to classrooms for the start of the 2012-13 school year. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Adrienne Robb-Fund and Coordinator of Curriculum and Assessment Caroline Schozer were both on hand for the orientation to welcome the new teachers to the district.
With class back in session on Sept. 5, the new teachers were briefed on first day of school guidelines, emergency and safety procedures, arrival and dismissal operations, student learning objectives and the new Common Core State Standards. The Common Core State Standards establish the same classroom goals for all students at each grade level. The district has been working on staff development and aligning curriculum to the new Common Core State Standards to ensure all students have the academic foundation to be college and career ready upon graduation from high school.
Each of the four elementary schools in the district has two new educators for the 2012-13 school year: Mary Danna and Christine Anderson will be teaching at Willow Road Elementary School, Wheeler Avenue Elementary welcomes Heather McDonough and Pamela Crepeau, and James A. Dever Elementary added Megan Ross and Valerie Giannoulis. Additionally, Kelly Logan and Lisa Santoiemma will be teaching at Howell Road Elementary.
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Students Return to School Eager to Learn
Students at Howell Road returned to school this September eager and ready to learn. Excitement was in the air and backpacks were filled to the brim with new school supplies. As the students arrived, they were greeted by teachers, staff, PTA representatives and administrators. With many activities and engaging lessons planned, the year ahead is sure to be a highly productive and fulfilling one for all.
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Students Head Back To School
The district welcomed students back to school on Sept. 5. The new Wheeler Avenue Elementary School Principal Dr. Gayle Steele was enthusiastic about her new role as she greeted the students heading toward their classrooms.“The first day of school is always exciting,” stated Dr. Steele. “It’s a new beginning for me and a new beginning for everyone,” she added
On the first day of classes, parents were welcomed into the Wheeler Avenue auditorium for coffee and cake and enjoyed a special meet-and-greet session with their new principal. Buses were fully operational and running on schedule, and students were eager to start their studies.
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Faculty and Staff Share Their Favorite Books
Earlier this year, the Superintendent of Schools Dr. Adrienne Robb-Fund asked the faculty to list some favorite books from their childhood. The reason was to encourage students to read and enjoy books their own teachers cherished. The list below is arranged alphabetically. Chapter books, usually for older children, are marked with a “c” to let you know that they are chapter books. Reading time can be a special family time. Share family favorites and read favorite books together.
Click Here to View the Book List
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Refreshed and Ready to Learn
Students at the James A. Dever Elementary School started the new school year with a renewed enthusiasm for learning. On the first day of school, students returned eager to see their classmates and friends. They were all very anxious to start learning and working together with their teachers to create another successful school year.
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Moment of Silence Commemorates September 11th
Students at the Howell Road School commemorated this year’s eleventh anniversary of September 11th with a school-wide outdoor ceremony. Students and staff members dressed in patriotic colors and shared poetry, sang patriotic songs and observed moments of silence. The students and staff honored the heroes of September 11th by uniting to demonstrate their patriotic spirit and pride.
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District Launches District Wide Email Notification Service
The District has now implemented a district wide email notification system for parents and community residents called “E-News.”
The District will use E-News to provided updated information regarding school events, meetings and activities. This communication system will also be utilized to inform families and residents about any weather-related school closings or delayed openings.
The first E-News was sent to families whose email is already on file with the district.
Go to the yellow box on below and follow the directions.
Sign up for Valley Stream #13
E-News
Email:
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Handbooks
2012-2013 Employee Handbook
2012-2013 Parent Handbook
Code of Conduct - Grades K-2
Code of Conduct - Grades 3-6
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District Registration - Register Now
District Registration is held at Memorial Junior High School, 1 Kent Rd., Valley Stream. Registration hours are Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9AM to 11 AM. No appointment is necessary. District residents whose children will turn five on or before December 1, 2012 are encouraged to register so that we may plan for the 2012-2013 school year.
Click here for registration materials
Transportation Request Form (PDF)
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