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November 3, 2026

East Rockaway Family Engagement Night highlights mental health and wellness

A group of people participate in various activities in a classroom setting with tables and chairs.

The East Rockaway School District welcomed students and families for an evening of learning, connection and hands-on activities during its Family Engagement Night on Oct. 28. The event highlighted the district’s mental health and wellness initiatives, introduced families to available resources and provided opportunities to connect with school support staff.

Representatives from Long Island Reach attended the event to introduce the organization’s new partnership with the district and share information about the mental health resources and services available to students and families.

Throughout the evening, families participated in a variety of interactive activities designed to promote relaxation and emotional well-being. School social worker Mrs. Mednick led hands-on activities, including sensory sandboxes, coloring and fidgets. Students and parents also tested their knowledge of mental health and wellness through an interactive spinning wheel, answering questions and winning prizes. Therapy dog Sloopy was another popular guest, offering plenty of opportunities for some calming doggie snuggles.

The evening also gave families an opportunity to learn more about the district’s social-emotional learning programs. School psychologist Ms. Patalano and school counselor Ms. Maleska shared information about the new K-6 SEL Habits of Mind curriculum, while school social worker Mrs. Weissman Canale discussed the mental health initiatives and Tier 1 supports offered annually at East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School.

Family Engagement Night is part of a districtwide series held throughout the school year, offering families opportunities to connect with their schools through a variety of educational and interactive experiences. Other events in the series include Family STEM Night, Family Literacy Night and Family Multicultural Night, each designed to bring students, families and staff together while supporting learning and strengthening school-community connections.

A group of people interacts in a colorful classroom filled with tables and educational materials. A group discusses projects at tables with papers and a laptop displaying information in a classroom.

A group of people participates in various activities in a classroom setting. A person and a child examine colored drawings on a table in a classroom setting.

A person kneels near a black dog wearing a red leash in a classroom setting.