Skip to main content
October 1, 2026

East Rockaway Board of Education holds September meeting

A group sits at a table during a school district meeting in a theater setting.

The East Rockaway Board of Education held its regular September meeting on Sept. 29 in the East Rockaway High School auditorium.

Centre Avenue fourth grader Abigail Schemmel had the honor of leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

Don Poland named Hometown Hero

Longtime East Rockaway social studies teacher Don Poland was named the district’s Hometown Hero in recognition of his decades of service to East Rockaway. Throughout his career, Mr. Poland has led numerous service projects benefiting communities both close to home and across the country.

Most recently, Mr. Poland brought together his passion for education, history and community service to create a pop-up museum commemorating the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001. Displayed at the East Rockaway Historical Society, the exhibit reflected more than two decades of his work teaching students about citizenship, patriotism, resilience, kindness and service.

New staff welcomed to the district

Superintendent James DeTommaso welcomed East Rockaway’s newest staff members, introducing them to the Board of Education and community before inviting the group up for a photo.

Jimmy Lores Way dedication announced

The district will honor Jimmy Lores on Oct. 16 during halftime of the football game. As part of the celebration, the drive outside East Rockaway High School will officially be dedicated and renamed Jimmy Lores Way.

Update on Rhame Avenue principal search

The search for a new principal at Rhame Avenue is underway, with district administrators, staff and families participating in the process. The initial pool of 65 applicants has been narrowed to four candidates, who will meet with the Board of Education in the coming weeks. The district thanks everyone who has contributed to the search as it works to identify the right person to lead the Rhame Avenue community.

Student and school updates

Student Board member Nora Smith delivered her monthly report, followed by news and updates from schools across the district as part of Mr. DeTommaso’s superintendent’s report.

 To view the meeting recording – please visit this YouTube link.

A group of six people standing together in an indoor space, and posing Five people pose together in a hallway, and standing closely next to each other.

People seated at a table, with a projector screen displaying a recognition event for Don A group of people standing together in a hallway, posing for a photograph.

A person speaking at a podium with a microphone and a blue curtain Person wearing glasses speaking at a podium with an East Rockaway sign and flags behind.