🖤💛 SSAC Students Present to the Board of Education
On March 24, 2026, members of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) delivered a district-wide presentation to the West Hempstead Board of Education, showcasing student-driven ideas and survey results from Cornwell Avenue, George Washington, and the Secondary School.
Highlights included proposals for a RAM Café and RAM Fun Zone at the elementary level, requests for increased recess time, new clubs, and outdoor equipment at George Washington, and Secondary student initiatives focused on expanded AP and language course offerings, improved technology resources, eco-friendly school practices, and stronger community programming.
WHe are proud of the thoughtfulness and preparation our SSAC members brought to the Board — a true reflection of the student-centered values at the heart of the West Hempstead UFSD. Student voice drives our district forward, and this presentation is proof.
#WHeRiseTogether #RamProud #RamCulture
On March 24, 2026, members of the Superintendent's Student Advisory Council (SSAC) delivered a district-wide presentation to the West Hempstead Board of Education, showcasing student-driven ideas and survey results from Cornwell Avenue, George Washington, and the Secondary School.
Highlights included proposals for a RAM Café and RAM Fun Zone at the elementary level, requests for increased recess time, new clubs, and outdoor equipment at George Washington, and Secondary student initiatives focused on expanded AP and language course offerings, improved technology resources, eco-friendly school practices, and stronger community programming.
WHe are proud of the thoughtfulness and preparation our SSAC members brought to the Board — a true reflection of the student-centered values at the heart of the West Hempstead UFSD. Student voice drives our district forward, and this presentation is proof.
#WHeRiseTogether #RamProud #RamCulture
Spotlight: Literacy in Full Bloom at @WHChestnut
Spring has arrived at Chestnut Street Elementary — and so has an extraordinary season of literacy growth. This week, district leadership had the privilege of visiting @WHChestnut, where the energy of learning was on full display in every classroom.
Students were engaged in a rich variety of literacy experiences across the school day. In small group settings, teachers provided targeted, purposeful instruction — meeting each learner exactly where they are and guiding them forward with skill and intention. At the interactive board, students demonstrated growing confidence as they stepped up to lead and participate in whole-group learning. Throughout independent work time, young learners were immersed in phonics activities, digraph sorting, and focused writing tasks that reflected both rigor and joy.
What stood out most during this visit was the seamless integration of literacy across every moment of the school day — a true testament to the dedication and craft of the @WHChestnut staff.
Spring is a season of growth — and our students are proving that every single day. What a WHonderful development indeed. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
Spring has arrived at Chestnut Street Elementary — and so has an extraordinary season of literacy growth. This week, district leadership had the privilege of visiting @WHChestnut, where the energy of learning was on full display in every classroom.
Students were engaged in a rich variety of literacy experiences across the school day. In small group settings, teachers provided targeted, purposeful instruction — meeting each learner exactly where they are and guiding them forward with skill and intention. At the interactive board, students demonstrated growing confidence as they stepped up to lead and participate in whole-group learning. Throughout independent work time, young learners were immersed in phonics activities, digraph sorting, and focused writing tasks that reflected both rigor and joy.
What stood out most during this visit was the seamless integration of literacy across every moment of the school day — a true testament to the dedication and craft of the @WHChestnut staff.
Spring is a season of growth — and our students are proving that every single day. What a WHonderful development indeed. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
🏅 WH Athletes Serving as Special Olympics Ambassadors — March 25th
We are thrilled to share that on Tuesday, March 25th, two West Hempstead student-athletes will proudly represent our district as Special Olympics Ambassadors at local Jersey Mike's Subs locations!
Mikaela Velez will be at the Jersey Mike's in West Hempstead (621 Hempstead Turnpike) from 3:15–3:45 PM, and Rafael Borja will be at the Lynbrook location (643 Sunrise Highway) from 4:30–5:00 PM. Both athletes will be greeting visitors and may even help make sandwiches!
We invite our entire West Hempstead community to stop by, grab a sub, and show your support for these two outstanding young people. Come celebrate them — they've earned it! 🖤💛
We are thrilled to share that on Tuesday, March 25th, two West Hempstead student-athletes will proudly represent our district as Special Olympics Ambassadors at local Jersey Mike's Subs locations!
Mikaela Velez will be at the Jersey Mike's in West Hempstead (621 Hempstead Turnpike) from 3:15–3:45 PM, and Rafael Borja will be at the Lynbrook location (643 Sunrise Highway) from 4:30–5:00 PM. Both athletes will be greeting visitors and may even help make sandwiches!
We invite our entire West Hempstead community to stop by, grab a sub, and show your support for these two outstanding young people. Come celebrate them — they've earned it! 🖤💛
Spotlight: Reading & Math Come Alive at @CornwellAveES
This week, district leadership had the pleasure of visiting @CornwellAveES, where literacy and mathematics took center stage in a big way. Students were fully engaged in partner reading and non-fiction exploration, developing critical comprehension skills alongside their peers. In mathematics, classrooms buzzed with energy as learners participated in surveys and the Close to 100 game — building number fluency through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
The dedication of @CornwellAveES staff was on full display, creating dynamic learning environments where every student had the opportunity to grow, connect, and succeed. It is this kind of intentional teaching that drives academic excellence across the West Hempstead Union Free School District.
WHe are incredibly proud of our students and staff for making every day a day worth celebrating. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
This week, district leadership had the pleasure of visiting @CornwellAveES, where literacy and mathematics took center stage in a big way. Students were fully engaged in partner reading and non-fiction exploration, developing critical comprehension skills alongside their peers. In mathematics, classrooms buzzed with energy as learners participated in surveys and the Close to 100 game — building number fluency through meaningful, hands-on experiences.
The dedication of @CornwellAveES staff was on full display, creating dynamic learning environments where every student had the opportunity to grow, connect, and succeed. It is this kind of intentional teaching that drives academic excellence across the West Hempstead Union Free School District.
WHe are incredibly proud of our students and staff for making every day a day worth celebrating. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
📋 IMPORTANT CALENDAR UPDATE — West Hempstead UFSD
WAIVER OF DAY & HOUR REQUIREMENTS
Following careful review of Governor's Executive Order #58, our district has agreed to utilize the waiver exemption it provides. This satisfies Education Law 3604(7), allowing us to request a waiver of day and hour requirements for state aid purposes.
📅 CALENDAR REMINDERS
✅ April 1 — School WILL be in session. Please plan accordingly. This will be a Day 2 at both the elementary and secondary levels.
🚫 April 10 — School WILL BE CLOSED.
#WHeRiseTogether #SchoolCalendar
🏅 WH Athletes Serving as Special Olympics Ambassadors — March 25th
We are thrilled to share that on Wednesday, March 25th, two West Hempstead student-athletes will proudly represent our district as Special Olympics Ambassadors at local Jersey Mike's Subs locations!
Mikaela Velez will be at the Jersey Mike's in West Hempstead (621 Hempstead Turnpike) from 3:15–3:45 PM, and Rafael Borja will be at the Lynbrook location (643 Sunrise Highway) from 4:30–5:00 PM. Both athletes will be greeting visitors and may even help make sandwiches!
We invite our entire West Hempstead community to stop by, grab a sub, and show your support for these two outstanding young people. Come celebrate them — they've earned it! 🖤💛
🖤💛 George Washington Mentorship Week: Secondary Students Rise as Leaders
West Hempstead UFSD is proud to spotlight an exciting initiative unfolding across our secondary and elementary schools — George Washington Mentorship Week!
Our Music, Culinary, and Visual Arts departments at @wh_secondary have partnered with @WHGWashington collaborators to create a dynamic, student-led mentorship experience — one that bridges our feeder program and connects younger learners with the talented educators they will one day work alongside at the secondary level.
📅 Here's what took place this week:
🎵 March 23 — Music Department
Secondary music students visited G.W. to lead explorations in sight-singing, harmony, dynamics, and performance refinement, guided by Mr. Coleman, Mr. DiPasquale, and Mr. Kane in collaboration with G.W. faculty.
🍳 March 30 — Culinary Arts Department
Led by Ms. Gulisano, secondary students engaged 6th graders in the science behind recipes and measurements — turning curiosity into culinary confidence.
🎨 March 31 — Visual Arts Department
Ms. Ross and the Visual Arts Department inspired creativity and a deeper appreciation of the elements of art — sparking imaginations and building connections that will last a lifetime.
This initiative is a shining example of what becomes possible when colleagues with shared goals come together to elevate student potential. A heartfelt thank you to all participating teachers, principals, and assistant principals for your coordination and unwavering commitment.
Most importantly — congratulations to our students. You stepped into leadership, served as mentors, and showed our community what it truly means to rise together. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
West Hempstead UFSD is proud to spotlight an exciting initiative unfolding across our secondary and elementary schools — George Washington Mentorship Week!
Our Music, Culinary, and Visual Arts departments at @wh_secondary have partnered with @WHGWashington collaborators to create a dynamic, student-led mentorship experience — one that bridges our feeder program and connects younger learners with the talented educators they will one day work alongside at the secondary level.
📅 Here's what took place this week:
🎵 March 23 — Music Department
Secondary music students visited G.W. to lead explorations in sight-singing, harmony, dynamics, and performance refinement, guided by Mr. Coleman, Mr. DiPasquale, and Mr. Kane in collaboration with G.W. faculty.
🍳 March 30 — Culinary Arts Department
Led by Ms. Gulisano, secondary students engaged 6th graders in the science behind recipes and measurements — turning curiosity into culinary confidence.
🎨 March 31 — Visual Arts Department
Ms. Ross and the Visual Arts Department inspired creativity and a deeper appreciation of the elements of art — sparking imaginations and building connections that will last a lifetime.
This initiative is a shining example of what becomes possible when colleagues with shared goals come together to elevate student potential. A heartfelt thank you to all participating teachers, principals, and assistant principals for your coordination and unwavering commitment.
Most importantly — congratulations to our students. You stepped into leadership, served as mentors, and showed our community what it truly means to rise together. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
🚧 ROAD CLOSURE ALERT – Chestnut Street 🚧
Heads up, neighbors! Chestnut Street is currently CLOSED due to active road work. Please plan ahead and use the marked detour routes:
🔀 Detour options include Lewis St, Colony St, Birch St, Walton St, Laurel Ave, and Woodfield Rd.
#WestHempstead #RoadClosure #ChestnutSt #TrafficAlert #CommunityUpdate
Heads up, neighbors! Chestnut Street is currently CLOSED due to active road work. Please plan ahead and use the marked detour routes:
🔀 Detour options include Lewis St, Colony St, Birch St, Walton St, Laurel Ave, and Woodfield Rd.
#WestHempstead #RoadClosure #ChestnutSt #TrafficAlert #CommunityUpdate
Please be aware that Road Work Ahead Inc. (516-997-0505) will begin road construction on Chestnut Street starting Monday, March 23rd. Work hours are 7:00 AM–3:30 PM.
Families may experience traffic delays during drop-off and pick-up. Please know that access to and from the school will remain open at all times, and alternate routes via surrounding side streets will be available. Please note that parking on Chestnut Street may be limited or unavailable during this period.
We ask that you encourage families to plan for extra travel time and use alternate routes as needed. Any questions can be directed to the school office.
The current plan is for construction in front of the school to take place during the break.
Families may experience traffic delays during drop-off and pick-up. Please know that access to and from the school will remain open at all times, and alternate routes via surrounding side streets will be available. Please note that parking on Chestnut Street may be limited or unavailable during this period.
We ask that you encourage families to plan for extra travel time and use alternate routes as needed. Any questions can be directed to the school office.
The current plan is for construction in front of the school to take place during the break.
🏅 WH Athletes Serving as Special Olympics Ambassadors — March 25th
We are thrilled to share that on Wednesday, March 25th, two West Hempstead student-athletes will proudly represent our district as Special Olympics Ambassadors at local Jersey Mike's Subs locations!
Mikaela Velez will be at the Jersey Mike's in West Hempstead (621 Hempstead Turnpike) from 3:15–3:45 PM, and Rafael Borja will be at the Lynbrook location (643 Sunrise Highway) from 4:30–5:00 PM. Both athletes will be greeting visitors and may even help make sandwiches!
We invite our entire West Hempstead community to stop by, grab a sub, and show your support for these two outstanding young people. Come celebrate them — they've earned it! 🖤💛
At @WHGWashington, Every Day is a Great Day to Learn 🖤💛
Step inside George Washington Elementary this week and you would have found something truly special — classrooms filled with curiosity, determination, and joy.
From students proudly displaying their fraction work on personal whiteboards, to young learners discovering the magic of music, to teachers crouching down beside their students to offer guidance and encouragement — learning at @WHGWashington is anything but ordinary.
Our educators show up every day committed to meeting each child where they are, ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged, and celebrated. Whether WHe are working through a tough math concept or learning to read a new piece of sheet music, the energy in our building is infectious.
Just like the great leader our school is named after, our students are developing the courage, resilience, and work ethic that will carry them far beyond the walls of our classrooms.
💛 Great teachers. 🖤 Eager learners. Together, #WHeRiseTogether.
Step inside George Washington Elementary this week and you would have found something truly special — classrooms filled with curiosity, determination, and joy.
From students proudly displaying their fraction work on personal whiteboards, to young learners discovering the magic of music, to teachers crouching down beside their students to offer guidance and encouragement — learning at @WHGWashington is anything but ordinary.
Our educators show up every day committed to meeting each child where they are, ensuring that every student feels supported, challenged, and celebrated. Whether WHe are working through a tough math concept or learning to read a new piece of sheet music, the energy in our building is infectious.
Just like the great leader our school is named after, our students are developing the courage, resilience, and work ethic that will carry them far beyond the walls of our classrooms.
💛 Great teachers. 🖤 Eager learners. Together, #WHeRiseTogether.
At @wh_secondary, Everyone is a Learner 🖤💛
From the art room to the library to the math classroom, one thing is clear this week — West Hempstead's secondary school is a place where curiosity thrives, and hard work is celebrated.
Students are sculpting Neanderthal heads as part of a rich cultural anthropology study, wrestling with challenging math problems alongside their teachers, and exploring the power of the written word. Meanwhile, our dedicated educators are carving out time to collaborate, reflect, and grow — because great teaching never stops evolving.
At West Hempstead, #WHe believe learning is for everyone. Students and adults alike show up each day ready to stretch their thinking and produce a little mental sweat — and that commitment to growth is what makes our community truly special.
💛 Students learning. 🖤 Educators growing. Together, #WHeRiseTogether.
From the art room to the library to the math classroom, one thing is clear this week — West Hempstead's secondary school is a place where curiosity thrives, and hard work is celebrated.
Students are sculpting Neanderthal heads as part of a rich cultural anthropology study, wrestling with challenging math problems alongside their teachers, and exploring the power of the written word. Meanwhile, our dedicated educators are carving out time to collaborate, reflect, and grow — because great teaching never stops evolving.
At West Hempstead, #WHe believe learning is for everyone. Students and adults alike show up each day ready to stretch their thinking and produce a little mental sweat — and that commitment to growth is what makes our community truly special.
💛 Students learning. 🖤 Educators growing. Together, #WHeRiseTogether.
During a visit to Cornwell Avenue Elementary School earlier this week, it was inspiring to witness our young learners fully engaged in the art and science of mathematics. Students were collaborating on interactive digital activities, working through problem-solving worksheets in small groups, and receiving attentive, hands-on guidance from their dedicated teachers — all with enthusiasm and focus that filled every room.
Moments like these reflect the heart of the West Hempstead Union Free School District's commitment to academic excellence, student collaboration, and teacher dedication. WHe are proud of every student and educator at @CornwellAveES who showed up and gave their best.
Together, WHe Rise. 🖤💛 #WHeRiseTogether
Visit our website regularly for updates, highlights, and stories from across the district.
Moments like these reflect the heart of the West Hempstead Union Free School District's commitment to academic excellence, student collaboration, and teacher dedication. WHe are proud of every student and educator at @CornwellAveES who showed up and gave their best.
Together, WHe Rise. 🖤💛 #WHeRiseTogether
Visit our website regularly for updates, highlights, and stories from across the district.
🖤💛 Morning Magic at @WHChestnut
Dreary day? Not a chance. The morning routines at @WHChestnut are a testament to what purposeful early childhood education looks like in action. From whole-group instruction and interactive learning at the board, to individualized art and literacy experiences, to collaborative hands-on exploration — every corner of the classroom reflects our commitment to growing the whole child.
Social. Emotional. Academic. These aren't just words in a mission statement — they are the foundation of every single morning at @WHChestnut, brought to life by dedicated educators and eager young learners who arrive each day ready to grow.
WHe are proud. WHe are grateful. And WHe Rise Together. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
Dreary day? Not a chance. The morning routines at @WHChestnut are a testament to what purposeful early childhood education looks like in action. From whole-group instruction and interactive learning at the board, to individualized art and literacy experiences, to collaborative hands-on exploration — every corner of the classroom reflects our commitment to growing the whole child.
Social. Emotional. Academic. These aren't just words in a mission statement — they are the foundation of every single morning at @WHChestnut, brought to life by dedicated educators and eager young learners who arrive each day ready to grow.
WHe are proud. WHe are grateful. And WHe Rise Together. 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
Lights. Camera. Rise!
Our incredible maintenance team just leveled up our broadcasting room with a brand-new green screen — and we couldn't be more proud! This is what #WHeRiseTogether looks like in action.
When every team member — no matter their role — shows up for our students, amazing things happen. Our future broadcasters, filmmakers, and storytellers now have the tools they need to shine.
The stage is set. Now, Rise! 🎬
#WHeRiseTogether
#StudentSuccess
#FutureReady
#Broadcasting
#WestHempstead
#OurMaintenanceTeamRocks
Our incredible maintenance team just leveled up our broadcasting room with a brand-new green screen — and we couldn't be more proud! This is what #WHeRiseTogether looks like in action.
When every team member — no matter their role — shows up for our students, amazing things happen. Our future broadcasters, filmmakers, and storytellers now have the tools they need to shine.
The stage is set. Now, Rise! 🎬
#WHeRiseTogether
#StudentSuccess
#FutureReady
#Broadcasting
#WestHempstead
#OurMaintenanceTeamRocks
Growing Minds and Moving Feet at @WHChestnut
There is a vibrant energy at @WHChestnut as our students engage in the work of discovery! It is WHonderful to observe our learners mastering the art of managing impulsivity and showing growth in their focus.
Beyond building word banks and sharpening spelling skills, students are successfully activating prior knowledge to apply to new situations. And of course, WHe can’t forget the rhythmic excitement in the air as students prepare to dance. It’s a perfect balance of scholarship and fun! 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
There is a vibrant energy at @WHChestnut as our students engage in the work of discovery! It is WHonderful to observe our learners mastering the art of managing impulsivity and showing growth in their focus.
Beyond building word banks and sharpening spelling skills, students are successfully activating prior knowledge to apply to new situations. And of course, WHe can’t forget the rhythmic excitement in the air as students prepare to dance. It’s a perfect balance of scholarship and fun! 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
Less than 2 hours and counting. Don't miss it!
🎭 West Hempstead Drama Club presents Curtains — the musical comedy whodunit! 🔍
📅 March 12, 13 & 14, 2026 @ 7PM
📍 400 Nassau Blvd Auditorium
🎟️ $10 advance / $12 door
📞 516-390-3272
#WheRiseTogether @FPCAWest
📅 March 12, 13 & 14, 2026 @ 7PM
📍 400 Nassau Blvd Auditorium
🎟️ $10 advance / $12 door
📞 516-390-3272
#WheRiseTogether @FPCAWest
"Rising together means that we get to make new friends every day."
Focused and Flourishing at @CornwellAveES
It has been a WHonderful week of growth! Our students have firmly established their daily routines and are approaching their education with a remarkable sense of purpose.
Walking through the halls, it’s clear that our young learners have set their intent to learn. Whether diving into the nuances of literary genres or solving complex problems, they are showing a level of focus and poise that is mature beyond their years. WHe are so RamProud of the scholarship and maturity on display! 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
It has been a WHonderful week of growth! Our students have firmly established their daily routines and are approaching their education with a remarkable sense of purpose.
Walking through the halls, it’s clear that our young learners have set their intent to learn. Whether diving into the nuances of literary genres or solving complex problems, they are showing a level of focus and poise that is mature beyond their years. WHe are so RamProud of the scholarship and maturity on display! 🖤💛
#WHeRiseTogether
