West Hempstead Weekly Update

As we begin another school year together, I want to share with you the vision that guides everything we do in our district. Over the next six weeks, we'll explore different aspects of our educational approach, starting today with the fundamental question: What exactly are we building here?

Think of K-12 Education Like Building a House for a Child's Mind

When a master builder constructs a home, they don't start with the roof or randomly place windows wherever they feel like it. They follow a carefully planned sequence: foundation first, then framing, walls, electrical and plumbing systems, insulation, and finally the finishing touches that make it beautiful and livable.

The K-12 education system works the same way. Just like you need a strong foundation, sturdy walls, and a protective roof built in the right order, children need to learn things step-by-step over their 13 years with us. Each grade level builds upon the last, creating a strong, well-designed structure that will serve them throughout their lives.

The Foundation Years (K-2): These are our concrete and rebar years. We're establishing the fundamental skills of reading, writing, and mathematical thinking. WHe are teaching children how to sit, listen, follow directions, and work with others (think Habits of Mind). Without this solid foundation, everything else becomes unstable.

The Framing Years (3-5): Now WHe are building the basic structure. Students are reading to learn, not just learning to read. They're solving multi-step problems, conducting simple experiments, and beginning to think critically about the world around them.

The Systems Years (6-8): Like installing plumbing and electrical systems, the "north side" is where we add complexity. Students learn to navigate multiple teachers, manage longer-term projects, and grapple with abstract concepts. Their social and emotional "wiring" is also being installed during these crucial years.

The Finishing Years (9-12): The "south side" is where we add the specialized rooms, the custom features, and the beautiful details that make each house unique. Students choose their own academic pathways, develop expertise in areas of interest, and prepare for their next chapter.

The Big Picture: Growing Little Humans into Big Humans

But here's what makes education different from construction: WHe are not building with wood and nails. We're working with living, breathing, growing human beings.

Imagine a tiny acorn that contains within it the potential to become a mighty oak tree. That's what we see when a kindergartener walks through our doors on their first day. We're not just stuffing facts into their heads like cramming items into a storage unit. Instead, we're nurturing their natural growth in four essential dimensions:

Their Thinking Brain (Cognitive Development): WHe are developing their ability to reason, analyze, create, and solve problems. This isn't just about memorizing multiplication tables or state capitals. It's about building neural pathways that help them think flexibly, ask good questions, and adapt to new situations throughout their lives.

Their Feeling Heart (Emotional Development): WHe are helping them understand and manage their emotions, develop empathy for others, and build resilience when facing challenges. A brilliant mind without emotional intelligence is like a race car without steering—lots of power, but dangerous and ultimately ineffective.

Their Social Skills (Interpersonal Development): WHe are teaching them how to communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, resolve conflicts peacefully, and contribute positively to their communities. In our interconnected world, the ability to work well with diverse groups of people isn't optional, it's essential.

Their "I Can Do It!" Confidence (Character Development): We're building their sense of self-efficacy, integrity, and purpose. We want every graduate to leave us believing in their own potential while also understanding their responsibility to use their gifts in service of something greater than themselves.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

In a world that's changing faster than ever before, some people question whether this deliberate, sequential approach to education still makes sense. Why not just give kids tablets and let them learn everything online? Why not skip the "boring" foundational stuff and jump straight to the exciting advanced topics?

The answer is simple: shortcuts in construction lead to structural failure. Try to build a skyscraper without proper foundations, and it will collapse. Try to rush a child's development by skipping crucial stages, and you'll create gaps that become increasingly difficult to fill as they get older.

Our job is to be master builders of human potential. That means having the patience to lay strong foundations, the skill to build each level properly, and the wisdom to know that the most important work often happens in the early stages, where it's not immediately visible to the outside world.

Please remember this: every interaction you have with a child is either adding strength to their foundation or potentially creating a weak spot. Whether you're a teacher delivering a lesson, a custodian greeting students in the hallway, a bus driver starting their day with a smile, or a parent helping with homework, you are a co-architect in the most important construction project on earth—building the next generation of thoughtful, capable, confident human beings.

Let's make this year our best building year yet.

#WHeRiseTogether

Dan Rehman

We're excited to welcome our newest faculty members and teacher residents to the RamFam! Our orientation sessions, led by Ms. Dina Reilly, provided incoming educators with essential information about our district's culture, expectations, and resources to help them hit the ground running this school year.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated staff members who volunteered their time to make these orientations informative and welcoming. Their commitment to supporting new colleagues exemplifies the collaborative spirit that makes West Hempstead such a special place to work and learn.

Special thanks go to Professor McCarthy from Adelphi University and Ms. Sikes, our esteemed alumna, retiree, and now Adelphi adjunct professor, who will be working closely with our Teacher Residency Program (TRP) students. Their expertise and mentorship will be invaluable as these future educators develop their skills and passion for teaching.

We're confident that our new team members will make meaningful contributions to our students' success and look forward to watching them flourish in the RamFam. Here's to a WHonderful school year ahead!

It is WHonderful to introduce Dr. Scott Azar, who will be joining our district as the new Director of STEMB, effective September 22. Dr. Azar brings an exceptional combination of educational leadership, technological expertise, and innovative vision that will enhance our STEM programming district-wide.

Dr. Azar recently completed his Doctorate in Transformational Leadership with a focus on Artificial Intelligence in K-12 education at Long Island University. His dissertation study examines the attitudes, usage, and needs of New York State teachers regarding AI implementation in the classroom—research that positions him at the forefront of educational innovation.

With over 14 years of experience in education, Dr. Azar has demonstrated progressive leadership in integrating technology and STEM practices. In his current role as Science Teacher and District Technology Mentor at Bellmore-Merrick School District, he has spearheaded professional development initiatives, created innovative learning resources like the district's TechTok website, and developed custom AI tools to support NYSSLS-aligned instruction. His work has consistently enhanced both teacher efficacy and student engagement through project-based learning and emerging technologies.

Dr. Azar holds New York State certifications in School Building Leadership, School District Leadership, and Earth Science, and is recognized as a New York State Master Teacher. His extensive technological certifications include ISTE Certified Educator (among the first 1000), Google Certification Level 2, SchoolAI Certification Level 2, and numerous other platform-specific credentials that demonstrate his commitment to staying current with educational technology trends.

As a member of the New York State Master Teacher Program, Dr. Azar has been leading the EdTech Professional Learning Team and co-facilitating the Earth Science Professional Learning Team. His collaborative approach and dedication to supporting educators in curriculum transitions will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our STEM offerings.

Dr. Azar's proven track record includes successfully managing budgets, leading cross-curricular initiatives, and mentoring teachers at all levels. His experience spans grades 8-12 across multiple educational settings.

Please join me in warmly welcoming Dr. Azar to our educational community. He will be meeting with the administrative team over the next week to discuss our current initiatives and explore opportunities for innovation and growth. I am confident that his leadership will inspire new levels of excellence in our STEM programming.

Dear West Hempstead RamFam,

Imagine your child curled up with a book, lost in a world of adventure, or penning a story that sparks their imagination. At West Hempstead UFSD, WHe are passionate about nurturing lifelong readers and writers, and it starts at home with YOU! Our schools—Chestnut Street (PreK-K), Cornwell Avenue (Grades 1-3), and George Washington (Grades 4-6), along with our Director of Humanities and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum &Instruction, are here to share practical tips to make literacy a joyful part of your family’s daily life. Let’s dive in and explore how you can inspire your child to love reading and writing.

WHe have created a district webpage that can be found on all district sites, where we will share strategies and ideas that will help you support your child(ren). As well, we will create a monthly newsletter to keep you abreast of the latest happenings.

This summer has been exceptionally productive for our district, with numerous programs and facility improvements enhancing our educational environment for students and staff.

Student Programs

Our BOCES summer special education program provided crucial continuity of services for students with special needs, ensuring they maintained their academic progress throughout the summer months. Meanwhile, the RamPathways 21st Century Community Learning Center (CLCC) program offered enriching activities that combined learning with fun, keeping students engaged and academically active.

Young inventors had the opportunity to explore STEM concepts through our Camp Invention program, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in an exciting, hands-on environment. Additionally, our ENL (English as a New Language) summer bridge program supported multilingual learners in building language skills and preparing for the upcoming school year, helping ensure a smooth transition into their academic journey. This two-week nature-themed program includes planting and observing seeds, culminating with a Friday trip to Tanglewood for a nature walk and animal encounter.

Facility Enhancements

Significant infrastructure improvements have transformed our learning spaces. The secondary school's south gym received comprehensive upgrades, creating a better environment for physical education and athletic activities. A new state-of-the-art video conference room was installed, expanding our capacity for virtual learning and remote collaboration.

Grant-Funded Improvements

Thanks to successful grant funding, we completed several major projects at the secondary school. A new oil tank installation ensures reliable heating for years to come, while our weight room received a complete upgrade with modern equipment that will benefit our student athletes and physical education programs. Perhaps most exciting is our new art gallery, which will provide a dedicated space to showcase student creativity and artistic achievements.

These summer initiatives reflect our commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities while maintaining and improving the facilities that support our learning community. As we head into the new school year, these enhancements will serve our students, staff, and families well.

We believe that strong communication between home and school is essential for student success. The PowerSchool Parent Portal is a powerful tool that helps bridge this gap, providing real-time access to your child's academic progress.

Access Your Account

Visit the Parent Portal Link below. If you haven't set up your account, please contact the school office for your Access ID code.

Why It's Important

• Monitor grades and attendance
• View teacher comments and feedback
• Track assignments and due dates
• Communicate directly with teachers
• Stay informed about school events and announcements

By regularly checking the Parent Portal, you can play an active role in your child's education, addressing any concerns promptly and celebrating their achievements together.

We encourage all parents and guardians to take advantage of this valuable resource. If you need assistance with the Parent Portal, please don't hesitate to contact your child's main office.

Together, we can ensure every student reaches their full potential!

Parent Portal Link

https://powerschool.whufsd.com/public/

How to Video

https://youtu.be/eNZs_AloU-c

Main Office Phone Numbers

Chestnut Street - 390-3150

Cornwell Avenue - 390-3140

George Washington - 390-3130

Secondary School - 390-3218

We’ve teamed up with MySchoolBucks, an online service where you can easily and securely pay for school meals using a credit/debit card or electronic check.

Using MySchoolBucks you can:

● Add funds to your student’s meal account

● View meal balances & cafeteria purchases

● Receive low balance alerts

Get started in 4 easy steps:

1. Download the mobile app or visit myschoolbucks.com

2. Create your free account

3. Add your student

4. Add funds to your student’s meal account

If you have any questions about getting started with MySchoolBucks call (855) 832-5226. For any general questions please contact your child’s school.

ONEPAY from MySchoolBucks offers a one-time annual fee option to SAVE YOU MONEY!

• Annual savings plan offers reduced program fees when using MySchoolBucks for meal and school payments

  
  

• Allows user to pay program fees upfront from their bank account (e-checks), with unlimited payments for 12 months

• Offers a choice of two program fee payment packages:

• Single Student for $12.95 per year
• Family Plan for $26.95 per year (2 or more kids)

*Both plans cover 12 months from initial signup to ONEPAY

If you have any questions, please call the Food Service Office.

Nasrin Urmye, Food Service Director
(516) 390-3275
urmyen@whitsons.com

The Board of Regents has officially adopted the New York State Portrait of a Graduate. This development represents a significant step forward in our commitment to preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world.

The Portrait of a Graduate is the result of extensive collaboration, incorporating feedback from educators, families, students, and community members across the state. It's grounded in research and evidence-based practices, drawing from successful models implemented by school districts nationwide.

This framework envisions education where rigorous academics meet the real-world skills students need to thrive in our rapidly changing society. Our goal extends beyond college and career readiness – we're preparing thoughtful, engaged citizens who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

What This Means for Our District:

• Current graduation requirements remain unchanged
• The state will provide implementation guidance by summer 2027 through their NY Inspires plan
• Full statewide alignment begins with students entering 9th grade in the 2029-2030 school year
• Our district may begin reviewing our current practices against the Portrait framework as we prepare for implementation

This adoption aligns perfectly with our district's mission to provide every student with the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need for lifelong success. We look forward to working with our school community as we explore how the Portrait of a Graduate will enhance our already strong educational programs.

More information about implementation will be shared as guidance becomes available from the state.

I am thrilled to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome as we embark on our 2025-2026 journey together. This year promises to be transformational as we unite under our powerful theme:

#WHeRiseTogether. This simple yet profound concept captures the essence of who we are and what we aspire to become as a unified educational community.

As we gather to begin this new chapter, I invite you to consider two fundamental questions that will guide our work together:

• Who is it you stand for?
• What is it you stand for?

These are not just philosophical prompts—they are the foundation of our collective mission to create schools where every student thrives.

#WHeRiseTogether embodies our commitment to the power of collective effort over individual achievement. In a world that often celebrates individual accomplishments, we choose to embrace the transformative potential of "We over me." When we prioritize our shared vision and work together as a cohesive team, we create a synergy that benefits everyone involved. Each educator, each staff member, and each student becomes a vital part of our collective success story.

This mindset requires a daily commitment to improvement, recognizing that small, consistent steps lead to significant progress over time. It requires the courage to step out of our comfort zones—individually and as a team—pushing boundaries and facing challenges head-on. This deliberate growth builds resilience and sharpens our collective awareness, preparing us to tackle even greater opportunities in the future.

Our Focus: At Least One Year's Worth of Progress

This year, we're committing to work that truly matters through three key results that will transform our learning environment:

Simplify Our Systems: We will eliminate redundant processes and reduce administrative burden, allowing you to focus on what matters most—teaching and learning. Our Burden Reduction Task Force will conduct monthly reviews to ensure we're streamlining rather than complicating your important work. Please see the email sent earlier in August for more information.

Strengthen Our Core Teaching Practices: We will provide protected collaborative planning time for grade-level and subject teams, renewed focus on the Plan-Implement-Evaluate cycle, and meaningful peer observation opportunities that honor your expertise and foster professional growth.

Support Innovation through Technology: We will integrate AI and technology tools that reduce administrative burden rather than increase it, providing professional learning that enhances your agency as educators and amplifies human connection rather than replacing it.

Navigating Change Together

As we implement these initiatives, I commit to leading with empathy, explaining the "why" behind our decisions, honoring the dedication that built our current systems, communicating early and often, and inviting ongoing dialogue. Your voice matters in this process—we need your wisdom and experience to succeed.

Creating Schools Where We All Rise

Together, we will create schools where:

• Work becomes great because curiosity drives it beyond obligation
• Students are seen, heard, and challenged to reach their full potential
• WHe have the time and support to focus on what matters most
• Collective triumph takes center stage over individual achievement

The Designing Learning framework is an educational approach #WHe uses to engage students and close the aspiration gap. The framework encompasses several key principles aimed at enhancing the learning experience for students and staff:

The Designing Learning framework consists of: Connection Before Content, Acceleration not Remediation, Rethinking Success Criteria, Higher-Level Thinking, Student Agency, Authentic Work, and Technology Infusion.

1. Connection Before Content: This principle emphasizes building strong relationships and belonging in the classroom. It recognizes that when students feel connected to their teachers and peers, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated to learn.

2. Acceleration, not Remediation: Rather than focusing solely on addressing deficits in students' knowledge or skills, this framework aspect promotes challenging students with content and tasks that allow them to excel and progress rapidly. It recognizes that students can achieve more when they are appropriately challenged.

3. Rethinking Success Criteria: This principle encourages educators to reconsider traditional notions of success and assessment. It involves clearly defining success in a given context and allowing for varied ways for students to demonstrate their understanding and mastery.

4. Higher-Level Thinking: The framework promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among students. It encourages educators to design learning experiences that push students to engage in deeper levels of thinking and analysis.

5. Student Agency: Empowering students to actively participate in their learning is a fundamental aspect of the framework. It encourages students to set goals, make choices, and take ownership of their educational journey, fostering a sense of autonomy and responsibility.

6. Authentic Work: This principle advocates real-world relevance in educational activities. It suggests that students should work on tasks and projects that have meaning and application beyond the classroom, making learning more engaging and practical.

7. Technology Infusion: Recognizing the role of technology in the modern world, this aspect of the framework encourages the thoughtful integration of technology into the learning process. It aims to leverage technology to enhance and expand educational opportunities.

By Art Costa, Bena Kallick, and Allison Zmuda

There is a growing recognition that mastering subject-area knowledge alone will not be sufficient to prepare your children for their futures. They will need deliberate practice and focused attention to grow their capacity as efficacious thinkers to navigate and thrive in the face of unprecedented change. Habits of Mind are a universal framework for thinking and are as essential now as when we first introduced them 30 years ago. Habits of Mind are dispositions people use when confronted with problems and situations to which answers are not immediately apparent. When we draw upon these intellectual resources, the results that are produced are more powerful, of higher quality and of greater significance than if we fail to employ those intellectual behaviors.

Email: drehman@whufsd.com
Website: www.whufsd.com
Location: 252 Chestnut Street, West Hempstead, NY,
Phone: 516-390-3000

Articles and blurbs may be enhanced/written with various AI tools.