By Roxanne Garcia-France
In Valley Stream District 30, families are at the heart of everything we do. Research shows that children thrive when families are supported, engaged and included in their education.
Our schools do more than teach reading, math and science; they partner with families to ensure that every child has what they need, the chance to grow, and a strong sense of belonging. Each morning, children walk to school with parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles or older siblings, and teachers greet them at the door. These daily interactions — parents chatting, children laughing, teachers connecting with families — create a warm, supportive community where children feel safe, seen and ready to thrive.
The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2025 Kids Count Data Book offers a comprehensive analysis of children’s well-being across the United States, including detailed information about New York state. It tracks indicators such as family support, education, health and economic stability, highlighting where children are thriving and where communities need to step up. In Valley Stream, 53 percent of families are certified for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Women, Infants and Children, reflecting economic pressures many households face.
This data isn’t just numbers on a page; it reminds us that to support children, we must support families, and that the work we do in our schools is part of a larger effort to give every child the resources, stability and encouragement they need to succeed.
Every child in our district starts the day ready to learn. Through the Community Eligibility Provision, all students receive free breakfast and lunch, removing barriers that can make even a simple school day challenging. Hungry children struggle to focus, while families facing economic pressures — single parents, grandparents raising grandchildren or households providing elder care — receive welcome relief from the cost of daily meals. By ensuring that children have nutritious meals, these programs also allow families to redirect funds to other household needs.
Our work extends beyond the walls of our schools. Local businesses and organizations offer vital enrichment opportunities that broaden students’ understanding of the world beyond their immediate neighborhoods. Dick’s Sporting Goods contributes resources for programs that engage students in physical activity and teamwork.
Through the SCOPE scholarship program, we partner with Valley Stream Central High School to recognize graduating students from our district with $500 awards. Nassau BOCES Arts in Education programs give students hands-on experiences in outdoor education at Caumsett State Historic Park, and science exploration through the Long Island Children’s Museum. Together with our PTA, which hosts book fairs and enrichment events, these partnerships help children build knowledge, expand their horizons and grow as learners while remaining connected to their community.
Every initiative we pursue reflects both our vision (“someday”) and our mission (“every day”). Our vision is to educate, inspire and celebrate every child to become a global leader of tomorrow. The INSIDE Way — our mission — shows how we get there each day. Leaders, teachers and staff ensure that each child reaches their fullest potential by Igniting passion in students, Nurturing their sense of belonging, Supporting academic and social-emotional growth, Integrating best instructional practices, Differentiating learning, and Empowering every child to succeed. Access, opportunity and belonging guide every decision we make.
We recognize the importance of early learning. Our pre-K programs, supported by State Education Department grants, give children a strong introduction to the school environment. Our after-school programs provide a safe and engaging space for students to play, learn and grow while their parents are at work. These programs build confidence, strengthen social skills and foster a lifelong love of learning, giving children the foundation they need to succeed both academically and socially.
Families are a key partner in everything we do. When parents attend school events, participate in workshops and contribute to decision-making processes, students recognize that their success represents a shared commitment. Our schools grow stronger through family engagement, and our community thrives because families understand their partnership role in raising the next generation.
Here in Valley Stream, strong families build strong communities, and strong communities build strong schools. We take pride in the programs, partnerships and resources that provide children with access, opportunity and a deep sense of belonging. When families are supported, children thrive. When children thrive, our community thrives. We continue to encourage families to partner with our teachers and leaders, creating a circle of support that ensures that our students grow into the global leaders of tomorrow they are meant to be.
Dr. Roxanne Garcia-France is superintendent of Valley Stream School District 30.
