(SEPTEMBER 2022)—Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen recently opened its doors to its students for the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year. James A. Dever Elementary School, Willow Road Elementary School, Wheeler Avenue Elementary School, and Howell Road Elementary School were filled with laughter and excitement as students walked through the hallways on their first day.
“It was an incredible first day of school and a great way to start the 2022-2023 school year,” said Dr. Judith LaRocca, Superintendent of Schools. “There is always something special about the first day of school when the buses start rolling in and students are dropped off by their families. It was exciting to see new and returning students and I am thrilled to see what the new school year brings!”
In discussing the District’s main focus and vision for the new school year, Dr. LaRocca stated, “it is critical that we provide a guaranteed and viable curriculum across the District. This includes our ongoing initiatives related to early literacy, with the goal of all our students reading on grade level by third grade.” The District updated its grades 3-6 math program and expanded its pre-kindergarten program from four to six classes and will continue to focus on the New York State Culturally Responsive Sustaining education framework which provides for the creation of a welcoming and affirming environment for schools.
