July 15 marked the highlight of the summer for students in East Rockaway’s Extended School Year (ESY) elementary program: a surfing lesson! For the third consecutive year, the ESY program headed to the beach for an exciting surf clinic hosted by the Long Beach-based nonprofit Surfer’s Way.

Surfer’s Way is a volunteer-based organization that provides children with special needs the opportunity to experience the freedom and exhilaration of surfing through free summer clinics. 

Accompanied by family and ESY staff, the students arrived at Riverside Beach, ready and eager to catch some waves. A few first-time participants were hesitant, but Surfer’s Way instructors were kind and encouraging, helping each student feel safe in the water. In all, six of East Rockaway’s youngest learners successfully rode the waves, demonstrating exceptional bravery and having a great time.

It was a great experience for the students, who emerged from the water with big smiles and an even greater sense of accomplishment. After the surf lesson, they spent some time at the beach before heading back to Rhame Avenue. Big thanks to Surfer’s Way for an unforgettable morning.