ROOSEVELT, NEW YORK (SEPTEMBER 2023) — The Roosevelt School District rolled out the red carpet for its students across the District on the first day of school. At Washington Rose Elementary School, the first day was highlighted by its "Men of Distinction" opening event. District administration joined with local members of Divine Nine fraternities and Doric Lodge # 53 to greet students at Washington Rose Elementary School and generate excitement about the year ahead.
“Our theme this year is “the best is yet to come.” When we say that, we include our community, our board and our staff. We believe, wholeheartedly, that it takes a village to raise a child and that is what the event here at Washington Rose is all about. You see the fraternity brothers, community members and other esteemed guests coming out to inspire and encourage our students and support our mission,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Deborah Wortham.
Students beamed with smiles as they entered Washington Rose to upbeat music and high-fived members of historically Black Divine Nine fraternities and Hempstead-based Prince Hall lodging group Doric Lodge # 53. The “Men of Distinction” event is part of Washington Rose’s community partnership initiative, which began in 2018 and aims to collaborate with local community members and get them involved in students' education and social development. The initiative aims to instill pride in the District’s young men of color by providing them with role models in their community.
First day activities also took place at the District’s Centennial Avenue Elementary School, Ulysses Byas Elementary School, Roosevelt Middle School and Roosevelt High School. Dr. Wortham visited all the schools on opening day to impart words of encouragement to students, sharing with them the message of the new year: “the best is yet to come.” To learn more about the Roosevelt Union Free School District, please visit the District's website at https://www.rooseveltufsd.org. Happenings in the District can also be followed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RooseveltUFSD.