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East Rockaway honors valedictorian, salutatorian and longtime staff at June meeting
Summary
The East Rockaway Board recognized 2025 valedictorian Timmy Poland and salutatorian Joey Lu, and paid tribute to several longtime staff members including a science teacher with 38 years of service and two elementary aides, during a pre-meeting honors segment.
The East Rockaway Union Free School District recognized graduating leaders and retiring employees at the start of its June 10 meeting.
Mr. Shafer introduced Timmy Poland as the district's 2025 valedictorian, praising his academic and extracurricular record and noting Poland has completed numerous Advanced Placement and dual-enrollment courses and earned the AP Capstone diploma, the New York State Seal of Civic Readiness and the Seal of Biliteracy. "Timmy is not only a top scholar ... but also a compassionate and humble leader who inspires those around him," Shafer said. Poland is scheduled to attend Hofstra University in the fall to study accounting.
Shafer also introduced Joey Lu as the 2025 salutatorian, describing her heavy course load of AP and dual-enrollment classes, high Regents and AP exam scores, and recognition with Seals of Biliteracy in Spanish and Chinese. "Joey approaches challenges with a solution-oriented mindset," Shafer said. The board heard that Lu will attend Binghamton University to study mathematics.
The board then paid tribute to several retiring staff. Shafer described a science teacher who taught at East Rockaway Junior-Senior High School for more than 38 years, noting his breadth of courses and role in preparing students for advanced science classes. Student testimony recalled a teacher who made science engaging and memorable.
Principal Bix Horn spoke about two Rheem Avenue staff members: Victoria Longworth, who served in roles including teaching assistant and reading interventionist for about 20 years, and Terry Owen, a 1:1 aide and inclusion support staffer for roughly 15 years. Horn said both employees "model strength" and "bring the best to every role." Miss Kelly read remarks on behalf of school counselor James O'Driscoll, outlining his counseling work across multiple buildings and his role in social-emotional programs.
The honors portion ended with applause and brief superintendent remarks thanking students and retirees. The board took a short break before beginning the formal business agenda.
