Thursday, October 1, 2026
Eighth-graders at Malverne’s Howard T. Herber Middle School recently took an important step toward high school by participating in the annual “Crossing the Ocean” program, a tradition that officially welcomes them as future Malverne High School students.
The program takes its name from Ocean Avenue, the road separating Howard T. Herber Middle School from Malverne High School. As students crossed the street, they also marked an important milestone in their educational journey, leaving middle school behind and beginning their transition to high school.
Upon arriving at Malverne High School, students were welcomed by Principal Dr. Bascombe, Assistant Principal Dr. Cressy, Dean of Students Mr. Brescia and members of the school’s counseling team. Student ambassadors then guided the incoming freshmen on tours of the building, introducing them to classrooms, common areas and the many academic, extracurricular and leadership opportunities available to them in the fall.
The program is designed to familiarize students with their new school while easing the transition into ninth grade by connecting them with administrators, counselors and student leaders before the school year begins.
“Crossing the Ocean is more than a walk across the street – it’s a meaningful milestone that helps students begin to envision themselves as members of the Malverne High School community,” said Rebecca Gottesman, district director of school counseling. “By welcoming students into the building before the school year begins, we help reduce uncertainty, build confidence and ensure they know they have a strong support system ready to help them succeed from day one.”
The transition will continue this summer when Malverne High School hosts its ninth-grade orientation for incoming students and their parents on the morning of Aug. 20. Additional information will be shared with families during the summer.
Malverne Public Schools said it looks forward to welcoming the Class of 2030 to Malverne High School and supporting students as they begin the next chapter of their educational journey.
