Dear Ramily,

I was especially inspired by my recent visit to Thomas A. Edison School. I had the privilege of reading and recording a chapter from E.B. White’s timeless classic, Charlotte’s Web, as part of their One Book, One School Literacy Initiative. The experience reminded me of the power of slowing down. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the simple but profound lessons stories can offer.

Charlotte’s Web is more than just a tale about a pig and a spider. It is a story rich with themes of friendship, loyalty, and the cycles of life. Charlotte’s unwavering support for Wilbur teaches the importance of compassion and kindness, values that resonate with children and adults alike. Her example encourages us to help lift others up, especially those who may feel vulnerable. Another lesson woven throughout the story is the inevitability of change and the beauty that can be found in it. Wilbur’s journey reminds us that while change can feel daunting, it often brings growth, resilience, and new beginnings.

As I read, I was struck by how much we can learn from the perspectives of children. Their curiosity and fresh outlook challenge us to reconnect with the simpler truths that matter most. It is a beautiful reminder of our shared responsibility to nurture these values in the next generation.

I was equally delighted to attend the culminating celebration, complete with Charlotte’s Web–themed activities, carnival-style games, and even a visit from baby piglets. Watching the children connect with the story in such joyful, hands-on ways was a testament to the dedication of our leaders and teachers. It was truly a celebration of life, literacy, and, most importantly, a love of reading.

I extend my thanks to Thomas A. Edison School for inviting me to take part in this initiative. It was a joy to share in the lessons of Charlotte’s Web alongside our students and staff. I left feeling inspired not only by the classic story itself, but also by the bright spirit of our children and educators.

Thank you for this wonderful reminder. I look forward to more opportunities where we can come together to reflect on the stories that shape us.

Sincerely, 

Dr. Aurelia Henriquez
Superintendent of Schools

 

 

Date Added: 9/29/2025

Seven talented students from Port Chester High School have been selected to perform in the New York State School Music Association’s (NYSSMA) Area All-State ensembles on October 30. These young musicians will join top performers from across Westchester County in this prestigious festival.

With nearly 900 students participating in NYSSMA last year, being chosen for Area All-State is a significant honor. Students earn their place through exceptional proficiency, accuracy, and artistry in band, orchestra, or choir.

Representing Port Chester High School at the 2025 Area All-State Festival are:

• Oscar Morales (Grade 10) – Band

• Naiah Talatala (Grade 10) – Band

• Alexander van der Wateren (Grade 10) – Band

• Mary Mateus (Grade 10) – Choir

• Alejandro Mojica (Grade 12) – Choir

• Diego Vega (Grade 12) – Choir

• Saul Guerra (Grade 12) – Orchestra

In preparation for their performances, the students will rehearse with distinguished conductors and clinicians while collaborating with other top musicians from across the region. According to Band, Orchestra, and Choral Directors Isaac Schneider, Melissa Neyer, and Jonathan Pereira, this opportunity promises to be both challenging and transformative.

“I’m beyond thrilled for our students who earned a spot in Area All-State,” said Choral Director Jonathan Pereira. “Their passion for music, countless hours of preparation, and determination to grow as artists have brought them to this moment. They continue to inspire all of us, and I’m excited to watch them share their voices with the wider community on such a prestigious stage.”

“Area All-State is a great opportunity that showcases the dedication of all our students,” added Band Director Isaac Schneider. “I am especially proud of the three students selected for band, as being chosen for this ensemble as 10th graders is no small feat!”

“I’m so proud of Saul for being selected into Area All-State,” shared Orchestra Director Melissa Neyer. “His dedication and talent for music truly shone through, and this is a wonderful way to celebrate his hard work.”

Please join us in congratulating these outstanding Area All-State musicians, along with the entire Port Chester Music Department, for their commitment to excellence and for nurturing the passion and success of our students.

 

 

Date Added: 9/29/2025

Port Chester Middle School proudly took part in the nationwide observance of Red Ribbon Week (September 22–26), uniting around the importance of students making safe, healthy choices and living a drug-free lifestyle. Throughout the week, students engaged in activities that blended fun, learning, and reflection.

 

Highlights from the week:

• Daily Themes: Each day featured a different theme to build awareness and spark conversations.

• Curriculum Connections: The science department collaborated to design lessons that reinforced the importance of living drug-free.

• Morning Announcements: Bonanno engaged students with daily quiz questions to promote healthy choices.

• Student Pledges: During PE classes, students signed red ribbons as a pledge to stay drug-free. The Beautification Club proudly displayed the signed ribbons for all to see.

• Drug Prevention Stickers: On Monday, homerooms received special stickers to kick off the week.

• Tom Grimes Assembly: Yesterday, guest speaker Tom Grimes, a United States Air Force veteran and retired New York City Police Department detective, spoke with sixth and seventh grade students about the importance of drug and alcohol prevention. After the presentation, seventh graders participated in a reflection activity that included writing prompts and restorative circle discussions to deepen their understanding of the message. The photos you see capture students actively engaging in these meaningful activities.

 

Date Added: 9/29/2025

Over the summer, Port Chester’s elementary teachers came together to collaborate on projects designed to strengthen the English Language Arts (ELA) and Math curriculum at every grade level. Their efforts included developing new reading resources, creating phonics materials, preparing extra math practice pages, and designing assessment tools. The goal was twofold: to give students stronger support in the classroom and to provide families with greater consistency at home.

This work directly supports GOAL 1 of the District’s Strategic Plan:

Improve and enhance academic growth, rigor, and proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics through multiple pathways and a data-driven culture.

By applying data, research, and collaboration, and by fostering transparency and student agency, Port Chester is building a culture where every child has access to high-quality learning opportunities and multiple pathways to success.

“A great teacher’s work is never done,” said K–5 Literacy Instructional Support Specialist Heather Rinello. “Educators across the district collaborated and turned their passion into purpose, creating resources that will ignite learning all year long.”

These projects, developed by teams of classroom teachers and specialists, reflect the district’s shared commitment to ensuring that every student has the tools they need to grow, achieve, and thrive.

 

Date Added: 9/29/2025

Mentors and mentees from across the Port Chester School District gathered at Crawford Park Mansion recently for the annual Mentor Program Meet & Greet. The event was organized and hosted by District Mentor Consultants Leslie Salvatore and Chris Zidik, with assistance from Stacey Losito. Together, they created a welcoming, social atmosphere where participants could connect and build relationships.

Attendees enjoyed refreshments, meaningful conversations, and even a raffle with fun school-related prizes such as pens, notepads, and other goodies. The gathering set a positive tone for the year ahead, strengthening connections that support and inspire our newest educators.

 

Date Added: 9/29/2025