West Hempstead Weekly Update

This Sunday marked a momentous occasion for our school community as we celebrated the graduation of our outstanding Class of 2025. The ceremony was a beautiful tribute to the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of our students over their academic journey with us.

Our graduates have demonstrated exceptional growth, not only in their academic pursuits but also in their character development and community involvement. They leave us well-prepared for the next chapter of their lives, whether continuing their education or entering the workforce.

WHe extend our heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and their families, and our sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff members who supported these students throughout their time here. The ceremony was a proud reminder of why we do what we do—to help young people reach their full potential and make a positive impact in the world.

As we look ahead, we carry forward the inspiration from this celebration and continue our commitment to excellence in education for all our students.

Good afternoon and welcome students, families, friends, and faculty. It is an honor to stand before you today as you are about to become the graduating class of 2025. A graduation ceremony is a significant milestone in your lives and a culmination of years of hard work. Today is all about you and an acknowledgment of your achievements and an opportunity to recognize those who have helped you along your journey to get to this point.

There are several people that I would like to acknowledge and thank. First, our Senior class advisor, Ms. Wilkens. Four years ago, you assumed the responsibility of becoming the Freshman class advisor. Throughout those four years, you poured your heart and soul into this graduating class. Through the countless bake sales, car washes, and Class Night practices, you used that time to help guide and mentor these “Surfs Up Seniors.” Your organizational skills and dedication allowed you to be a fantastic class advisor. On behalf of the Senior Class, thank you for all you did.

I’d like to thank our committed Central Office administration, tremendous Board of Education, wonderful staff, and dedicated facilities personnel. The work that you do, often behind the scenes, allows our students to be successful and our school community to provide the absolute best education for our scholars.

To the parents and guardians of these students, thank you. The strength of the home-school connection is one of the most powerful determining factors of student success. From the very beginning, you have provided a strong foundation for your children and supported their growth every step of the way. We are grateful for your active involvement in their education and your partnership with the West Hempstead School District through this wonderful journey.

Thank you to tonight’s Master of Ceremonies, Ms. Lambo-Maron.

Last but not least, I’d like to thank Ms. Anna Maria Fortanasce for all of the work you do to prepare for this special occasion. Your organization, hard work, and sense of humor help to keep the main office and often the entire school running smoothly.

Before I begin with my formal remarks, I would like to recognize two students from this graduating class. Those students are Mary Dunn and Azalynd Pena. Please stand so those present can see who you are. These young adults have decided to serve our nation by enlisting in the Air Force. We applaud you and thank you for your service.

To our graduates, six years ago, many of you walked through our doors as seventh graders. I can remember the nervous energy, the oversized backpacks, and the way you'd cluster together in the hallways, still finding your place in this larger world. You were children then, full of potential but still discovering your voices, your passions, and your purpose.

Today, I see young adults. I see confidence where there was once uncertainty. I see leaders where there were once followers. This transformation has been nothing short of remarkable, and I have had the privilege of witnessing every step of your journey.

When I look at this graduating class, what stands out most is your collective ambition and determination. You want more from life. You set goals and pursue them with tenacity. A few notable examples include creating the Next Gen Med club, marching in the National Memorial Day parade in Washington DC, advocating for the first-ever college signing day, and setting school records on the track. I’d also like to take this opportunity to recognize the 30 students who are wearing the silver cord. These students have selflessly volunteered over 100 hours of their time over the past four years. Thank you for understanding that there is more value in giving than receiving. You may be seated. Your drive and the refusal to settle for mediocrity sets you apart. Your influence on this school and this community will last long after today’s ceremony.

Seated behind me are future doctors, lawyers, engineers, educators, athletes, and entrepreneurs. And while those titles might one day reflect your careers, they don’t define your value. What truly distinguishes this class is not just your aspirations, but who you are today. Your kindness, empathy, creativity, humor, and resilience are the qualities that will guide you, not only through your college or career, but throughout life.

Today, however, I want to propose a challenge that might seem counterintuitive. While I have just celebrated your ambition and encouraged you to reach for those stars, I also implore you to seek balance. Find the balance between striving for more and fully appreciating what you already have.

In the world today, it's easy to get caught up in always chasing the next goal, the next milestone, the next accomplishment. But life isn't just about reaching the destination; it's about embracing the journey. It's about recognizing that even as you grow into who you're meant to be, you're already someone worth celebrating.

Take time to celebrate the small victories along the way. Cherish the friendships you've built, some of which will last a lifetime. Recognize the knowledge you've gained, not only from textbooks, but from experiences- the mistakes, the challenges, and the moments of uncertainty that taught you resilience.

Remember that success is not only defined by the heights you reach, but by the quality of your relationships, the integrity of your character, and the positive impact you have on others. As you pursue your dreams, stay grounded in the present. Don't let the pursuit of tomorrow steal the joy of today.

Graduates, today belongs to you. Enjoy this special day with your friends and family and thank them for their unwavering support and guidance. Treasure the memories and friendships you have made throughout your time in West Hempstead, they are a part of your story forever. Remember that no matter where life leads you, you will always be a Ram. Continue to make your community, your family, and yourselves proud by leading with compassion and conviction.

Class of 2025, chase your dreams with passion, but remember to pause along the way and embrace the journey with gratitude. Go and share your talents with the world, you all have so much to offer.

Good afternoon, graduates, families, faculty, staff, and Board of Education. What an extraordinary privilege it is to stand before you today as we celebrate the Class of 2025 and all they have accomplished during their journey through West Hempstead schools.

As I look out at these remarkable young people in their caps and gowns, I'm reminded that today isn't just about celebrating individual achievements--though there are certainly many to celebrate. Today is about recognizing how these graduates have embodied three principles that will serve them well beyond the secondary school walls: putting "WHe" over me, stacking their days with purpose, and understanding that the obstacle is the way.

Let me start with "WHe" over me. Throughout their time here in West Hempstead, these students have learned that the most meaningful accomplishments come not from individual glory, but from lifting others up alongside themselves. They've discovered that "WHe"—their collective strength as a class, as teammates, as study partners, as friends—has always been more powerful than any single person could be alone.

I've watched this class support each other through challenges, celebrate each other's victories, and create an inclusive community where everyone belongs. Whether it was organizing food drives for local families, mentoring younger students, or simply being there for a classmate who was struggling, they chose "WHe" over me, time and again. They understood that true leadership isn't about being the star—it's about making everyone around you shine brighter.

The second principle that has guided this class is the concept of stacking the days. Success isn't built in dramatic moments or grand gestures—it's constructed one day at a time, one assignment at a time, one act of kindness at a time. These graduates have learned that excellence is a habit, not an accident.

Every morning, they chose to show up, ok, maybe not on time, to engage, to push themselves a little further than the day before, they were stacking their days. Every time they stayed after school for extra help, every time they practiced that presentation one more time, every time they chose to read another chapter when they could have been scrolling their phones--they were building the foundation for the success we celebrate tonight.

Your diplomas represent thousands of stacked days. Days when you felt motivated and days when you didn't. Days when learning came easily and days when every concept felt like climbing a mountain. But you kept stacking, kept building, kept moving forward. And that discipline, that commitment to the daily work of growth, will serve you well in whatever path you choose next.

Which brings me to the third principle: the obstacle is the way. These graduates have faced their share of challenges—we all have, especially in recent years. They've navigated disrupted learning, social uncertainties, college application stress, and the normal pressures of adolescence. But what I've witnessed is remarkable: instead of being defeated by obstacles, they've learned to see them as opportunities.

When the pandemic forced us into remote learning, they didn't just adapt—they developed new skills in technology, self-direction, and resilience. When budget cuts threatened certain programs, they didn't just complain—they organized, advocated, and found creative solutions. When personal setbacks occurred, they didn't give up—they reached out for help, supported each other, and found ways to grow stronger.

You see, graduates, every obstacle you've encountered has been preparing you for something greater. That difficult math class that made you want to quit? It taught you persistence. That friendship conflict that broke your heart? It taught you empathy and forgiveness. That college rejection that disappointed you? It redirected you toward an even better fit.

The ancient Stoic philosophers had a phrase: "The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." You have lived this truth. You have transformed every barrier into a bridge, every setback into a setup for something better.

As you leave West Hempstead and venture into the next chapter of your lives, carry these three principles with you. Remember that you are never alone when you choose "WHe" over me—that your greatest achievements will come through collaboration, service, and lifting others up. Remember that your future is built by stacking today on top of yesterday, and tomorrow on top of today—that consistency and daily commitment matter more than sporadic bursts of effort. And remember that every obstacle you encounter is not a dead end, but a detour toward growth, strength, and wisdom.

The world needs what you have to offer. It needs your energy, your innovation, your compassion, and your commitment to making things better for everyone. You are graduating not just with knowledge, but with character. Not just with skills, but with values. Not just with dreams, but with the tools to make those dreams reality.

Class of 2025, you have made us all proud. Your families are proud. Your teachers are proud. Your community is proud. But most importantly, you should be proud of yourselves--not just for what you've accomplished, but for who you've become.

Now go forth and show the world what West Hempstead graduates can do. Stack your days with purpose, choose "WHe" over me in all your endeavors, and remember that every obstacle is simply the way forward in disguise.

Congratulations, Class of 2025. The future is yours, and it's going to be extraordinary.

Parents, get ready for convenient, flexible child care for students in Pre-K through 6th grade! SCOPE Education Services is offering comprehensive before- and after-school programs at multiple West Hempstead school locations.

Choose from full-time or part-time schedules:

• Before school care from 7:00 AM until school start
• After-school care from dismissal until 6:30 PM
• Full-time monthly rates start at $308 for before school and $390 for after school
• Part-time options available with flexible day selections

Early bird registration begins March 1, 2025, for current SCOPE students and incoming kindergarteners. Open registration starts May 3, 2025.

An annual registration fee of $40 applies, with sibling discounts available. Subsidies are also available for income-eligible families.

Register now at scopeonline.ce.eleyo.com and secure your child's spot for the upcoming school year!

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

Notice to Families: MySchoolBucks Program Fee Update

Dear Families,

We wanted to inform you about changes to the MySchoolBucks payment program that will take effect on August 1st.

What's Changing

Program Fee Increase: Starting August 1st, the MySchoolBucks program fee for all cafeteria credit and debit card payments will increase to $3.50 per transaction.

Electronic Check Payments: The program fee for cafeteria electronic check (e-check) payments will remain unchanged, provided e-checks continue to be accepted through the system.

Transaction Limit Increase: To provide families with greater convenience, the maximum meal payment limit will increase to $150 per transaction.

Please contact the main office of your child's school if you have any questions about these changes or need assistance with your MySchoolBucks account.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

We’ve teamed up with MySchoolBucks, an online service that allows you to 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

With "WHe" as our theme this year, #WHe are inspired to explore, discover, and achieve future wonders. Allow me to share some of the ways one could envision completing the idea of "WHe" throughout this remarkable journey:

• Wonder and Curiosity: Let us ignite a spark of wonder and curiosity in every aspect of our learning. Encouraging students and staff alike to question, explore, and seek knowledge beyond the ordinary.
• “WH”olistic Education: Emphasizing the growth of the whole individual – social, emotional, and academic. We aim to provide opportunities for personal development and well-being in addition to academic excellence.
• Empathy and Humanity: "WHe" stands for "We" as well, reminding us of our collective responsibility to foster empathy, compassion, and kindness. We will create a supportive and inclusive community where everyone feels valued.
• Waves of Change: As a theme, "WHe" also signifies the ever-changing tides of life. We will adapt to new challenges, embrace innovation, and be resilient in the face of uncertainty.
• Expressions of Art and Culture: "WHe" encompasses the essence of artistic and cultural expressions. We will celebrate creativity, appreciate diversity, and nurture talents in various forms.
• Wellness and Health: Prioritizing physical and mental health, creating a safe and nurturing environment where everyone can thrive and grow.
• Leadership and Collaboration: "WHe" represents collective wisdom and the power of collaboration. We will empower our students to be leaders in their own right while fostering teamwork and cooperation.

As #WHe embark on a new academic year, our district introduced three interconnected challenges that will shape our approach to education and personal growth. Under the banner of "WHe Over Me," "Stack the Days," and "The Obstacle is the Way," we're called to embrace collaboration, consistency, and resilience. These principles will guide us in fostering a supportive community, achieving sustainable progress, and transforming obstacles into opportunities. By focusing on these collective challenges, #WHe aim to create an environment where educators and students alike can thrive, learn, and grow together.

WHe Over Me​

Commitment: Prioritize the "we" over the "me." Our strength lies in our collective efforts. Let’s work together to create an environment where collaboration, teamwork, and mutual support are at the forefront. Whether it’s through Professional Learning Communities, cross-department collaboration, or simply supporting one another in daily tasks, remember that our combined efforts will lead to greater student success.

Stack the Days​

The Obstacle is the Way​

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.

CHESTNUT STREET SCHOOL, DISTRICT #27

From little acorns, mighty oaks grow.

From a four-room schoolhouse known as the Chestnut Street School, which served 86 children, District #27 has grown over the decades.

Around the turn of the century, the children of West Hempstead and Franklin Square shared a one-room school.

This was located at the junction of Nassau Boulevard and Dogwood Avenue. In 1911, the 29 families living in West Hempstead considered the need for a school for their children.

To receive state aid, Union Free School District #27 was formed in 1912. It covered 1650 acres, and the schoolhouse was to be built as near to the center of the District as possible. The site chosen for the school was Lot 6 and 8 Block 1, Hempstead Gardens Map. It was purchased for $3500. This was the start of the Chestnut Street School.

While the construction of the school building was going on, school was conducted in temporary quarters in a house on Ted Duryea's property on Woodfield Road. District #27 borrowed desks, seats, and blackboards from the Hempstead School District to conduct classes.

The members of the Board of Education for the year 1912 were Mr. P. Ohrtman, Mr. H.W. Rickmeyer, Mr. E. Losee, and Mr. W. Brenneke. The principal was Miss Mary A. Davern; the two teachers were Misses Elizabeth Van Vlick and Edith Slocum.

Toward the end of 1912, the school building was almost completed. It was now time to purchase some of the necessary supplies. The purchase orders read - 12 Arithmetics, 2 boxes of dustless crayons, and 3 Dictionaries, not to exceed $1.50 each. Another matter needed attention. An advertisement in a Hempstead newspaper stated that the School District had for sale "FRUIT TREES AND GRAPE VINES" on the Chestnut Street School site. There was only one bidder. The outcome was never mentioned.

In January 1913, the new four-room school building was completed. Miss Davern was given the assignment of arranging the classrooms. The "Intermediate" class was in the East Room, and the "Primary" was in the West Room on the lower floor. Miss Davern occupied the upper East Room; it is assumed that she taught the older pupils. The West Room was left vacant for the time being. Sometime early in February 1913, the students moved from the temporary schoolhouse to the Chestnut Street School.

Coal was used to heat the building. It was purchased for $4.50 a ton for pea coal and $6.50 a ton for furnace coal.

Hat tip to the Historical Society and Ms. McAvoy for sharing this information.

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.