East Rockaway High School students recently took center stage in a meaningful competition that connected classroom learning to real-world impact – and the results will soon be seen in the school's hallways.

English students in Mr. Weissman Canale's class presented design proposals for the renovation of the school's beloved Wall of Heroes to a distinguished panel of local veterans, administrators and peers. The project served as the culminating event of a project-based learning experience tied to the class's study of “The Things They Carried” by Tim O'Brien, challenging students to explore the evolving definition of heroism through both literature and real-world application.

After careful deliberation, judges selected sophomores Juliette Travia and Tristan Conklin as the competition winners. Their proposal will guide the transformation of the memorial hallway, bringing a fresh vision to a space that holds deep significance for the East Rockaway community.

The Wall of Heroes has a special history within the building. Ms. Donna Robbins originally created it several years ago as a passion project, gathering photographs of alumni in their military gear largely through word of mouth. What began as one counselor's dedication to honoring service members has grown into a cherished fixture of the school – and now, thanks to students' creativity and commitment, it is poised for an exciting new chapter.

The renovation is expected to be completed ahead of the June Board of Education meeting.