As school begins, a look at what’s working

The new school year is almost upon us. Students will return to classes on Wednesday in Valley Stream’s 14 schools.

Despite a tough economy, the four districts managed to maintain the status quo for the coming year. There are a few cuts and a few new programs, but for the most part, students will be returning to the same offerings as last year.

The beginning of school is a chance to look ahead with hope and ambition. We believe this year will be a good one, in which students will learn new things, make new friends and perhaps gain some insight into their eventual career choices. We encourage them to make the most of their districts’ strengths.

District 13: Technology

In the 21st century learning environment, the blackboard and chalk simply don’t cut it as learning tools anymore. Most children are so “plugged in” by the time they get to school that computers and other technological resources must be an integral part of their educational environment.

District 13 remains ahead of the curve, with modern computer labs, an abundance of interactive white boards and a wealth of learning software and educational links on its Web site. A fairly recent addition to the district’s technology toolbox is the Student Response System, or “clickers,” in which students can answer multiple-choice questions on small hand-held devices.

The district also offers video conferencing opportunities, connecting students with others around the world.

District 24: Character education

It’s not just about academics in District 24. It’s about a well-rounded education and molding good citizens. The district’s character education program, which has been in place for years, goes a long way toward creating a safe, respectful school environment.

The program was developed by consultant Maureen Florio and the late Diana Pirrone, a former assistant superintendent in the district. The pair presented their program at numerous conferences, sharing their best practices with others. The premise is a simple one: Students who are better behaved and focused will do better in school.

A big part of the program is its anti-bullying component. Children are taught to treat their peers with respect. Through the emotional intelligence component, they learn to express their feelings with words rather than potentially violent actions. The character education program has the support of Superintendent Dr. Edward Fale, the principals and the teachers.

District 30: Communication

School officials in District 30 do a good job of reaching out not only to parents, but to the community at large. Superintendent Dr. Elaine Kanas sets a good example at the top when it comes to communicating effectively with the school community. Her weekly newsletter, published on the district’s Web site, is both informative and responsive to parents’ concerns.

During last year’s small swine flu outbreak in Valley Stream, the district excelled at getting information out to parents through its Web site and letters sent home. Although not everyone agreed with the district’s decision to keep the Forest Road School open after there was a confirmed case, school officials explained why they made that decision. The district proactively invited the Nassau County Department of Health to an evening forum with parents on the topic.

The district goes to great lengths to include parents in the decision-making process. Its new math program was chosen with the input of parents, who were active members of the committee that designed it.

Central High School District:

College and career opportunities

The Central High School District has in-house many of the programs that other districts look to BOCES for. Its culinary program is perhaps one of the most visible, with students often called upon to provide meals for the schools’ various functions. The district also offers cosmetology, auto technology, computer business operations and construction and remodeling programs.

The Business Advisory Council links district students with members of the local business community. There is no better way to learn about an industry than from the people who are immersed in it every day. The annual career day programs are another valuable tool.

The science research program offers students real research opportunities and the chance to work with a mentor. And the district offers more than 20 Advanced Placement courses, giving them a leg up in the hypercompetitive college admissions process.