Rivertowns Enterprise Back to School 2016 by The Rivertowns Enterprise

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE August f o n o i t c e S l 26, 20 A Specia 16

Back to

SCHOOL

PAGE 2A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

CALENDARS

ARDSLEY SEPTEMBER 6

School Open

OCTOBER 3-4 10 12

Rosh Hashanah Columbus Day Yom Kippur

NOVEMBER 11 23 24-25

Veterans Day Superintendent’s Conference Day Thanksgiving Recess

DECEMBER 26-30

Holiday Recess

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

HASTINGS

JANUARY

2 3 16

New Year’s Day School Re-opens Martin Luther Kings, Jr. Day

SEPTEMBER 6

School Opens

OCTOBER

FEBRUARY

3&4 10 12

APRIL

NOVEMBER

20-24

Mid-Winter Recess

10-17

Spring Recess

MAY 29

Memorial Day

JUNE 23

Last Day of School

11 24-25

Rosh Hashanah Columbus Day Yom Kippur

Superintendent’s Conference Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Recess

DECEMBER 26-30

Holiday Recess

JANUARY

2 3 16

FEBRUARY 20-24

10-14

MAY 29

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER 3-4 10 12

Rosh Hashanah Columbus Day Yom Kippur

NOVEMBER 8 11 24-25

Superintendent Conference Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Recess

DECEMBER 26-30

Holiday Recess

JANUARY 2 3 16

New Year’s Day School Re-opens Martin Luther Kings, Jr. Day

20-24

Mid-Winter Recess

FEBRUARY APRIL 10-14

Spring Recess

MAY 29

Memorial Day

JUNE 23

Last Day of School

School Opens

OCTOBER 3&4 10 12

Rosh Hashanah Columbus Day Yom Kippur

NOVEMBER 3 11 24-25

Superintendent’s Conference Day Veterans Day Thanksgiving Recess

DECEMBER 23-30

Holiday Recess

Spring Recess

Memorial Day

JUNE

IRVINGTON

School Opens

Mid-Winter Recess

APRIL

DOBBS FERRY 6

New Year’s Day Observation School Re-opens Martin Luther Kings, Jr. Day

Last Day of School

JANUARY 2 3 16

New Year’s Day School Re-opens Martin Luther Kings, Jr. Day

FEBRUARY 20-24

Mid-Winter Recess

APRIL 10-14

MAY 26-29

Spring Recess

Memorial Day

JUNE 22

Last Day of School

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RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE Augu Section of THE s 26, 2 A Special 016

Back to

SCHOOL Back to School is a special section of

The Rivertowns Enterprise 95 Main St. Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (914) 478-2787 www.rivertownsenterprise.net PUBLISHER Deborah G. White SECTION EDITOR Todd Sliss ART DIRECTOR Ann Marie Rezen ADVERTISING DESIGN Suzanne Brown ADVERTISING SALES Marilyn Petrosa Thomas O’Halloran Barbara Yeaker Francesca Lynch © 2016 W.H. White Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without the Publisher’s written permission.

INSIDE BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 3A

FEATURE STORIES

Kids & Chores: Important for 4A

42A

whole family

eyond Grades: What tools do B students need to succeed in college?

Back to school, back to 8A spreading germs

Fashion with flair: From head to 27A toe, BTS shopping made easy

Mentors are key to success at all 31A

33A

education stages

Family Time: If school’s in session… is it OK to vacation?

SCHOOL NOTES rvington: ‘Best School District’ 12A Iready for new school year astings-on-Hudson: 15A HPreparing active, postive community members

rdsley: Are you ready for 22A Aanother amazing school year? obbs Ferry: Independent 25A Dthinkers will change the world

27A

Education Services.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34A Early Education.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38A Arts & Enrichment.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42A News & Notes....................................51A

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Enroll By August 30 and the first month is free Register Online: http://westchesterjazzcenter.com or call (914) 523-3672 To come visit or sit in please contact Liz@westchesterjazzcenter.com Check out the just-released album by Joey Berkley Available on iTunes, Amazon & Google Play

PAGE 4A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

KIDS & CHORES:

Important for whole family

BY MAJA TARATETA

ut it away, put it away, put your things away!” So urges kiddie crooner Laurie Berkner in her hit song, “Clean it Up.” In many households with preschoolers, this mantra is belted out with gusto while little ones toss stuffed animals into toy chests. But soon, the song loses its urgency, as kids grow older, and the playfulness of tidying up becomes more of a chore. But the act of helping around the house is critical to teach kids responsibility, the value of work and the sense of contributing to the family unit. “It is important for children to feel

like they are contributing members of the family,” said Dr. Paul Donahue, Ph.D, director of Child Development Associates in Scarsdale and author of “Parenting Without Fear: Letting Go of Worry and Focusing on What Really Matters.” “Unfortunately, in many families, parents feel like they are the ‘givers’ and children are the ‘takers.’ Sharing the responsibilities makes everyone feel better.” Time spent helping around the house “also can be a time for building relationships and team work and some special time with a parent or sibling,” said Sharyn O’Leary, principal of St. Patrick’s School in Bedford. It can also give children some much-needed qui-

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et time for contemplation. “Dusting, folding laundry, walking the dog — all afford children time to be alone with themselves and think and reflect,” she said. These concepts ring true for Dawn Meyerski, executive director of the Mount Kisco Child Care Center, where she encourages the little ones in her care to contribute at clean-up time. But on a personal level, one of her best memories growing up, she said, was doing the dishes with her sister. “It helped us build a strong relationship,” she said. “‘Chores’ has a negative connotation,” Meyerski continued. “But children can participate in tasks that

families do… Some things you just do because you are part of a family.” So how can parents and caregivers get kids helping around the house? For one, it helps to start early. “Children at an early age love to help Mom or Dad,” said O’Leary. “If you capture them at this time, chores are just routine and part of sharing time in a family — not something to be dreaded.” And it’s almost never too early to start. “I have a hand-out sheet of chores I use in my office that is fairly straightforward, but I particularly like it because it starts at 18 months,” said Donahue. “When our kids were that age, they were expected to go to the Continued on next page

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 Continued from previous page

front door and retrieve the New York Times off the doorstep, and then remove the blue bag it came in. As a lover of the morning newspaper, I considered this a big help.” For young children, age-appropriate chore ideas include: sorting socks from the laundry and putting away the silverware from the dishwasher. Besides helping the family, both of these also teach young learners matching skills. Experts also say that setting and clearing the dinner table should be an expected way children, even young ones, can contribute to family jobs. Children a bit older can help take out the garbage or weed the garden. Feeding family pets and getting the mail are other chores that are even popular with children. For maximum benefit, Donahue recommends pushing kids a little bit outside of their comfort zones in what parents ask them to do to help around the house: “A 7-year-old may not feel he can carry all the recyclables to the bins in the garage by himself, but with a little coaxing and help in breaking down and sorting the papers and containers, he can begin to handle that job on his own.” For many parents, this may sound like too much work. For them, that is. Wouldn’t it be much easier just to do the job themselves? “The simple answer is: it’s true,” said Donahue. “It’s much easier for parents to do the work

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 5A and it will take less time and the work will be more complete. But that misses the point of chores. If we are trying to teach kids responsibility and the value of hard work, we have to be patient and put up with their less than perfect habits, especially when they’re young. This can be very difficult at times… It take quite a while for work habits to become ingrained and for kids to develop intrinsic motivation — the satisfaction of a job well done.” “After a while, doing it all yourself leads to great frustration and a child who never knows how things get ‘magically’ done around the house,” agreed O’Leary. Taking the harder route at the early stage of establishing chores can lead to better outcomes as kids get older. Once you have created the concept of kids helping around the house, whether formally or informally, the question inevitably arises: Should kids receive an allowance for completing their chores? “A lot of people ask, ‘If you pay kids to do chores, is it bribery?’” said Meyerski. She prefers to think of it as “a reward for work.” In Meyerski’s opinion, children should receive compensation for some chores, while others should just be done because kids are part of the family. Additionally, the “payment” does not have to be monetary, but could be the earning of a special privilege, like selecting the movie on family movie Continued page 10A

“Ask Me” About My Bar/Bat Mitzvah!

Join Us as a B’nai Mitzvah panel of kids and parents share stories and showcase personalized services!

Saturday night, September 17 @ 7:30pm

First Reformed Church of Has3ngs, 18 Farragut Avenue

~ Learn how our children incorporate their music, art and poetry talents! ~ Learn how our families choose songs and tunes that are most meaningful to them! ~ Take a gallery walk and turn the pages of our many personalized B’nai Mitzvah services! ~ Kids and parents will be wearing “Ask Me” buLons throughout the evening! ~ Also “Ask Me” about She’arim Hebrew School! ~ Havdallah candle ligh3ng and dessert!

Open to all ages!

Mishkan Ha’am is a warm, joyful, collabora3ve

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She’arim/Gateways Hebrew School builds

on these themes through a project-‐based, community-‐focused, Jewish educa3onal program. ~ Now registering pre-‐K -‐ 6th grade students for our once-‐a-‐week Thursday program. ~ She’arim meets 4–6pm, September 29 – May 25 ~ Bar/Bat Mitzvah students must be in She’arim & families must be members no later than 6th grade. ~ Come to this special event and/or call about a free trial class for prospec3ve She’arim students!

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PAGE 6A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Beyond Grades..

What tools do students need to succeed in college?

BY MAJA TARATETA

s, Bs, GPAs, SATs, ACTs — it can’t be denied, when it comes to getting accepted to college, the alphabet soup of grades and tests do matter. But book smarts and standardized test results are not the only things colleges look at when determining if a student will be a good fit for their school. Experts agree: There are interpersonal tools, life-long learning skills and character traits that students should possess — abilities beyond good grades that point to continued success, in college and life. “Grades are seen as a ticket to success,” said Mark Rosenblum, head of high school at the French-American School of New York in Mamaroneck. “Even though people are very complex and multifaceted, the focus is on grades. They are seen

as some kind of guarantee that the child will grow up properly and have success in the future. But it’s not necessarily a negative thing. Grades can also be very motivating at a time when students may not be motivated by much else.” “While grades are a traditional way to measure academic achievement, they don’t always tell the entire story,” said Lillian Hecht of Collegistics, which provides personalized college advising in Scarsdale and beyond. “Context matters. Grades in isolation do not always offer a window on a student’s potential. School setting, the breadth and depth of academic options and class size are among many factors influencing student achievement and affecting the reliability of grades as an assessment tool.” “Alphanumeric grading systems lack nuance and, therefore, often do not fully reveal a student’s ability or take into account extenuating circumstances,” said

Collegistics partner Nancy Michaels. “Yet, in the absence of portfolio applications or narrative assessments, the transcripts — students grades and course selection — take primacy in the college application process.” It is a premise familiar to Susan Westlake, a tutor who prepares students for the SAT and ACT in Goldens Bridge. “For the purpose of communicating to potential colleges a student’s commitment to academics, grades do matter,” she agreed. “The better the grades, the more choices of colleges and universities the student will have, and the greater the chance the student will have of getting scholarship money.” However, Westlake hopes to show the students she preps for college entrance exams that balance is key. “My hope for my students is that they view grades as one data point showing what they know, but that they are able to grow a love of

learning and curiosity that drives them to want to learn more.” Indeed, there are many other skills, including curiosity and drive, that are critical to success in college and beyond. At FASNY, Rosenblum describes four sets of essential qualities he says are needed to succeed in college, a job and one’s personal life: academic skills, content knowledge, interpersonal skills and character traits. “To be successful in the world, all four are important,” he said. “Interpersonal skills are how students relate to others and are perceived and trusted as individuals. Character traits are needed to earn the interest and respect of others, which is critical to being a leader. Academic skills and content knowledge speak for themselves.” “In an increasingly global world, it is Continued on next page

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important for students to foster skills that allow them to collaborate with other people who are different from themselves,” said Westlake. With technology helping to make the world a smaller place, students need to know “how to work together on a team with people who have differing skill sets and views. These tools are important because they are the same tools that are associated with being successful in college, in a career and in life.” Rosenblum concurs that being able to work in groups and being an effective group member are critical skills for students to achieve, but also cites cultivating open mindedness, genuine curiosity and empathy as additionally imperative. “All the things that go under healthy character,” he said. “In general, children are naturally curious, enjoy learning and are eager to take on challenges,” said Lisa Rodman of Collegistics, who cites developing time-management skills, the ability to set reasonable goals and expectations and working well with others as important skills schools and parents need to help students develop. “These basics are useful throughout a student’s academic career.” How indeed can parents help foster these capabilities in their children outside what is developed at their schools? “The same basic skills that are needed in the classroom are needed in life,” Westlake said. “Parents can encourage communication skills by having the whole family participate in discussions at the

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 7A dinner table; interpersonal skills by teaching kindness to others; decisionmaking skills by involving the children in planning family activities; and life-long learning skills by encouraging work and volunteer experience.” Promoting these strengths is not always easy for parents to accomplish, but a commitment to their development in the home is essential to fostering well-rounded children. “As parents, we know it takes time and patience to allow children to take on responsibilities and gain independence,” said Leslie Berkovitz of Collegistics. “Helping them weigh the pros and cons of a given situation, involving them in decision-making and problem-solving processes, and allowing them to experience the natural consequences of their decisions, within reason, all contribute to developing the independence and judgment needed for success in college.” “Parents,” said Rosenblum, “can hold students to values that are not always easy to enforce… Letting their son or daughter solve their own problems, helping them learn the trait of being a self-advocate and independence… Letting their children be advocates for themselves and be gentle guides on the sides.” These will be ever more important when children enroll in college, and many of them leave home for the first time. “At college, students will face new situations, often in unstructured settings,” noted Ellen Golden of Collegistics. Students will be confronted with

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PAGE 8A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Back to school, back to spreading germs

BY MAJA TARATETA

t the start of the school year kids hop on yellow buses with backpacks brimming, return to classrooms, spend time with their friends and fill their days with both learning and fun. But with all of this fall excitement comes the return of something that sends shudders down the spines of parents and schools alike: the spreading of germs. “We always see a surge in commoncold-like viruses when kids go back to school,” said Dr. Sheila Nolan, MD, chief of pediatric infectious diseases at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network. “We also see a lot of school-based strep in September.” When kids head back to school so, too, do germs. Germs, it seems, are indeed everywhere. Favorite residences include door knobs, refrigerator handles, shopping cart handles, table tops — any places people touch can be tools to spread viruses and bacteria. “Germs can be anywhere,” said Nolan. “Usually, they are spread amongst children as they are playing. Younger ones put everything in their mouths. But they can also be spread by sneezes and

Steps for hand washing

How to wash your hands:

How to use alcohol-based hand rub:

• Wet your hands with warm running water. • Lather with soap and scrub between fingers, on the backs of your hands and under nails. • Wash for at least 20 seconds. That’s about as long as it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. • Dry your hands. Use paper towels or electric hand dryers. • Use a paper towel when you turn off the tap.

• Dispense alcohol-based hand rub into palm of hand. • Rub hands together, working the gel between your fingers, under nails and back of hands. • Continue rubbing hands until hands are dry. • Do not rinse hands or dry hands with a paper towel. — from the New York State Department of Health website, health.ny.gov

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coughs that are breathed in by others. If you touch something and then touch a mucous membrane like your nose or eyes, that’s how viruses enter.” With older children, Nolan said, viruses are typically spread by children not covering their coughs, sharing drinks and food and not practicing good hand hygiene. Anyone who has spent time in a school cafeteria or classroom knows how often these things happen. However, “Kids get less illnesses as they get older,” Nolan said. “Hygiene improves as well as the building of immunity.” It takes a while to get there. Parents and schools are intimately familiar with just how quickly illnesses can spread through a daycare or classroom. “Of course germs are everywhere, but we don’t want to foster undue concern or paranoia,” said Dr. Peter Richel, MD, chief of pediatrics at Northern Westchester Hospital in Mount Kisco. “Children must live and be happy doing so. It is, however, wise to be prudent in order to avoid infection as best we can.” In fact, trying to keep children away from all germs is a lost cause, as well as an unhealthy practice. “Cocooning your child is not the best thing,” said Dr. Robert Rosenberg, physician at Hartsdale Pediatrics, an affiliate of Boston Children’s Health Physicians. “I would proContinued on next page

THE

HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON PTSA WISHES EVERYONE A GREAT 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR! REMEMBER:

Become a PTSA Member and get your indispensable 2016-17 PTSA Calendar at the Farmers Market on Labor Day Weekend and at all Back to School events. Our membership and fundraising dollars go directly to programs for our schools.

Grants funded in 2015-16 included:

Lecture-demonstration by the world-famous Ballet Hispanico at HHS Visit from two-time Caldecott Honoree Marla Frazee to Hillside Mindfulness training at FMS Current Events program at Hillside HHS Student Playwriting Festival Funding for new playscape for FMS playground in response to parent initiative • Scholarships for class trips, musical instrument rentals, test fees and other class-related events • • • • • •

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 Continued from previous page

tect my child from public places where people might be sick. But cocooning will not prevent most colds that children will get… Children get sick seven to eight times per year during their first few years of life. This is helpful later in life to decrease the frequency of infections.” The idea that germs are out there should not cause parents too much pause. “Remember that with a healthy immune system, as most of our children have, they can fight the typical virus with time and supportive care,” Richel said. “Most infections in children are caused from a virus, infections that are annoying, yes, but usually medically insignificant and not requiring antibiotics. When children get a virus infection, their immune system creates antibodies to that particular bug and, in the future, that particular one will not affect them. Of course, fostering good habits will help, such as teaching them to cough into their folded arm and not their hands. And they should avoid that sick toddler cousin that may be coughing and sneezing in their face.” Experts stress that the single most important defense against the spread of germs is the simple act of proper hand washing. “Hand washing is very important,” Rosenberg said. “Alcoholbased soaps are very good at destroying viruses and bacteria and don’t require water… You don’t have to dry your hands with these soaps and you don’t have to get water hot. People tend to

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 9A wash their hands more if they have this option.” In fact, said Nolan, “The way the alcohol kills germs is the drying effect. You want it to dry, not wipe it off. The bacteria die from the drying.” However, if hands are visibly dirty, Rosenberg recommends “children should use soap and water.” Noted Nolan, “Soap and water create a barrier to the germs.” Richel is also a fan of soap-and-water hand washing, saying, “The value of hand washing with soap and water cannot be over-emphasized.” Some patients may complain of the drying nature of soap. “If one’s skin is dry after doing so, especially in the winter months,” he said, “moisturizing with lotion is acceptable to do.” When should hand washing happen? Children are advised to especially clean their hands in the morning, before lunch and when they return home from school, but as often as possible and especially before eating and drinking. Hand washing is high on the list of tips that the New York State Department of Health offers for “Keeping Your Germs to Yourself.” The department’s other advice includes: coughing or sneezing into tissues or bended arms, throwing tissues immediately into garbage baskets and staying home if you think you have the flu. But specifically, the department urges cleaning hands often with soap and hot water for at Continued on page 11A

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PAGE 10A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

CHORES

BEYOND GRADES

night or going out for an ice cream treat. “We have a generation of older children who have a sense of entitlement — that we owe them something,” said Meyerski. “But this is a way to say to kids, ‘This is a way to earn your reward.’” Donahue also fields the allowancefor-chores question often. “My feeling is that we should ask kids to be responsible and pitch in from early on, without attaching any payment to this work,” he said. “As they get to age 7 or 8, if they have demonstrated a willingness to help out and follow through with their chores then it makes sense to begin to give theme allowance. This helps them to learn to manage their money and to understand their contributions to the family do have value.” Additionally, “When children volunteer for extra jobs and show a willingness to take initiative or go beyond their regular chores, it is reasonable to compensate them for their work,” he said. O’Leary also sees value in children earning an allowance. “I always gave my children allowance, which teaches the value of money and saving up for something, once they were older, say 8 or 9 years old,” she said. But this is different from paying for chores: “I never liked the idea that the allowance was

choices that are not easy to make, and will have to rely on character skills developed over time to make good decisions. “The hope is that students will have the tools and feel empowered to solve their own problems but will also recognize when they are in over their heads and ask for help when appropriate,” she said. The bottom line, according to the experts in college admissions, is that grades do matter, but so too do strong character traits and the ability to engage in meaningful interpersonal relationships. At Collegistics, they sum it up this way: “College admissions officers seek students who have changed themselves in high school,” said Rodman. And while grades and standardized tests do make a difference in admission decisions, “Numbers, however, do not give the whole picture and, more and more, colleges are taking a holistic approach to admissions.” Personality, character and curiosity, in conjunction with grades, help to showcase to college admissions officers a well-rounded student with potential for success in the future. Said Hecht, “Overemphasis on grades can cause students to become narrow, undermining the ultimate goal of education and future achievement.”

Continued from page 5A

Continued from page 7A

payment for chores. It was a gift from Mom or Dad for them to use or save. Chores were expected responsibilities for everyone to make the family work load lighter for all, leaving free time to do something special.” For many parents, their kids may already be doing chores as a part of their everyday family life without even realizing it. Every time children carry a bag of groceries into the house from the car or hang their clean clothes in their closets, they are completing chores and contributing to the work of the family.

“Parents don’t realize that kids are helping out already,” said Donahue. “When they watch their young siblings for a short time or take the dog for a walk, these are all important ways that kids contribute to the family. We should show our appreciation to them, and recognize when they are starting to pitch in to become part of the solution to problems not just the source of them.” Indeed, to quote Berkner again, “You can make it fun to do. Mom and Dad can help you too!”

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 11A

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BACK TO GERMS Continued from page 9A

least 20 seconds, which can make a big difference in protecting oneself from germs and avoiding the spread of germs to others. On another front, Nolan also stresses the importance of vaccines for children, including the annual flu vaccine, to alleviate the spread of viruses and their impact on children. “Flu season comes every year and whatever strain that’s circulating, there is a pediatric mortality associated with it,” she said.

“About 40 percent of flu-related pediatric mortality cases have no recognized chronic health problems. The vaccine is not always a great match, but it’s better than nothing.” In addition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 percent of pediatric flu-associated deaths occur in children who did not receive the flu vaccine. Vaccinated or not, getting back to cleanliness, however, is a vital key in stopping the spread of germs. “There is an element of inevitability with many viruses,” said Nolan. “But it’s always prudent to be hygienic.”

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PAGE 12A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

SCHOOL REPORTS

‘Best School District’ ready for new school year BY DR. KRISTOPHER HARRISON

Irvington Schools Superintendent

s we welcome our students and faculty back to school this fall, Irvington will introduce many updates to our buildings and grounds, such as the installation of a new artificial turf athletic field with organic infill, a renovated running track, new LED gymnasium lighting on each campus, a renovated middle school courtyard, new heating units at Dows Lane Elementary School and many other refreshed spaces. The effort to enhance school facilities will help to support another outstanding year that will be recalled for impressive student accomplishments and growth, as we build upon our existing record of high student achievement, supported by our dynamic school community. From the board of education and administration to the faculty and staff, the district maintains a strong commitment to providing all of our students with engaging and rigorous learning experiences that are designed to provide a solid foundation for academic success while broadening their horizons and making education exciting and enjoyable. The evidence of this commitment can be seen in our exceptionally strong educational programs, which, when coupled with the talents of our students and faculty, have continued to garner New York State Reward School designation, an honor marking the highest achieving schools in the state.

Additionally, this year, the district was selected by the readers of Westchester Magazine as Best School District. This recognition speaks to the partnership the district and community have forged to provide for the very best learning experiences for our students. Consistent with the District Theories of Action, we strive to provide students with rigorous, authentic learning experiences rooted in a comprehensive curriculum wherein they will acquire the knowledge, skills and dispositions of successful 21st Century learners that will prepare them to thrive in a rapidly evolving global society. In support of this objective, the core of the Irvington School District’s success lies in the strength of our faculty and rich academic programs. To support continued growth, the district is committed to continually expanding these programs and cocurricular opportunities to serve our students’ needs, interests and abilities.

In the 2016-17 school year, we are eager to build upon our students’ STEM experiences at each school to promote student curiosity and enhancing their preparation for attending the most competitive colleges and achieving impressive careers and bright futures. These efforts will also be complemented by the district’s continued focus to increase the integration of technology in daily learning that includes the introduction of WiFi in both elementary schools and a remodeled technology lab at the middle school. As the year progresses, the district will utilize Smart Schools Bond funding to introduce more wireless devices at all levels. Additional new initiatives include the expansion of the Destination Imagination program from Main Street School to the middle school along with the growth of student clubs to enrich learning, while at the high school, a number of new electives will be introduced to expand student options and improve preparation for college. To support all areas of instruction, the district remains committed to providing its faculty and staff with ongoing professional development to support their growth and desire to provide an outstanding learning experience for every student, every day. Across all grade-levels, our teachers will continue to enhance their instruction to provide rigorous, enriching learning experiences with a focus on critical thinking. At the secondary level, the district is pleased to support the growth of its English program with significant Continued on the next page

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professional learning to support the integration of the Bard College Writing approach. Additionally, a focus on professional development will continue in the mathematics and world language departments. The district will also continue to support Irvington’s impressive arts program, which offers a wide array of visual and performing arts experiences and an exemplary instrumental and vocal music program. We are proud of the comprehensive learning experience we provide for our students, which we continue to expand at all grade levels through strong parent and community partnerships. Both the Irvington PTSA and the Irvington Education Foundation are staunch advocates for teachers and students. Through their collaboration with the school district, and with the support of the broader Irvington school community, the PTSA and IEF have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to enhance our students’ education through enrichment of our curricula. These special relationships, when integrated within the supportive Irvington community, provide an excellent scholastic experience for each of our students. A number of key staffing changes have been made that will strengthen our leadership team in 2016-17. This summer, the district was proud to welcome Mr. Matthew Samuelson to the community as the new assistant principal at Irvington High School. Mr. Samuelson joins Irvington having served in numer-

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 13A ous teacher leadership roles and as an English teacher. Having a deep background at the secondary level, he will quickly adapt to our school community to support our students’ growth. The district also named Jacquelyn Salcito to the role of assistant principal at Dows Lane. With a diverse professional career, starting as an elementary teacher and including time as a literacy coach and then a consulting teacher, Ms. Salcito brings strong instructional leadership skills and a passion for working with students to our school community. On the district level, Carol Stein was welcomed as the new assistant superintendent for business and operations. After holding a similar position in White Plains, Ms. Stein arrived in Irvington prepared to lead our business operations and has already been impactful in her oversight of the many on-going construction projects. In addition to these new administrators, we are also pleased to welcome new faculty and staff at all of our schools. They bring with them a tremendous amount of talent and passion that will surely enrich the community. The board of education, administration, faculty and staff extend their very best wishes for a successful 2016-17. We also encourage the entire school community to be involved by attending our board of education meetings or viewing them through the district’s website, as well as by attending the district’s many worthy artistic, academic and athletic events throughout the year.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

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THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 15A

SCHOOL REPORTS Hastings preparing active, postive community members BY DR. ROY R. MONTESANO Hastings Schools Superintendent

s we begin the 2016-17 school year, we enthusiastically welcome two new administrators: new principal Amy Cazes at Hillside Elementary School and assistant principal Christopher Keogh at Farragut Middle School. Mrs. Cazes’ diverse experience and collaboration with 40 school districts in Rockland and Westchester counties has prepared her well to be principal of Hillside Elementary School. She has a solid understanding of curriculum and instruction, as well as strong leadership skills. Prior to this appointment, Mrs. Cazes has worked with our Hillside teachers in literacy professional development sessions, so she comes to the district with some familiarity of our school community. Mr. Keogh has been with the district since 2009, and taught technology education to students in grades 5-8. Mr. Keogh worked closely with administrators and school counselors in shifting the middle school schedule to a block model. He also helped introduce PBIS, working closely with a cohort of teach-

ers and administrators on defining positive behavioral expectations and a system of rewards. Curriculum highlights During the 2016-17 school year, Hastings’ teachers will continue to focus on the implementation of New York State’s new science and social studies standards. Through the creation of new instructional units and the revision of existing units, we will ensure that instruction is aligned to the new standards while providing students

with authentic learning opportunities, hands-on activities, and opportunities to solve real world problems. Continual revision of curricula and reflection of instructional practice will keep the Hastings-on-Hudson School District on the cutting edge of education. Teachers and administrators will reflect on each curricular unit and instructional practice while identifying areas of improvement. This year, teachers will focus on how to provide student-centered instruction within all classrooms. They will also utilize

Makerspaces and classrooms to support design thinking and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) instruction while supporting the social and emotional needs of all our students. Several new courses will be offered during the school year. These courses cover a variety of topics, such as computer programming and computer science that will provide students with job-ready skills; a guitar elective that allows students an opportunity to creatively express themselves through music; and a nutrition class that will educate students on healthy eating and living. Additional course offerings, including AP Calculus (BC) and Design for Publishing, will allow students to push themselves to be critical thinkers and problem solvers. All of these courses are designed to offer students unique learning opportunities that will better prepare them for success after they leave the Hastings-on-Hudson School District. Technology As the recipient of several grants, exciting instructional technology tools will become available to students this Continued on page 16A

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HASTINGS

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Hastings SEPTA looks forward to exciting year

Continued from page 15A

Hastings Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA) is a parent/teacher organization dedicated to advocating for the differential learning needs of all students in the Hastings School District. SEPTA’s goal is to help foster a community that values and respects each student’s learning abilities and its membership includes parents and educators from the pre-kindergarten level through high school. SEPTA supports families and teachers, and advocates for children in many ways, including: • Last year the role of SEPTA Student Mentor was created where a Hastings High School student mentors younger students and their parents on navigating special education services in the district and beyond. This school year, SEPTA is excited to have three mentors. More information on how to access a SEPTA student mentor will be shared soon. • By sponsoring educational programming for parents and professionals. Over the years, SEPTA has hosted sessions on a variety of topics, including ADHD, dyslexia, sensory integration, executive functioning, study and organizational skills, and special education law. SEPTA also collaborates with Farragut Middle School on the experiential “Walk in My Shoes” program for the sixth-graders. Stay tuned for more

school year. High school students will be provided DELL Chromebooks that will be used both in and out of school to maximize learning opportunities. A new virtual reality learning experience called zSpace will be available to both middle and high school students, allowing them to participate in virtual 3-D lessons across a wide range of curriculum. And, our Introduction to Television Production class, which is being offered for a second year, will continue to utilize the latest equipment to produce news and interest segments in our TV studio. The Hastings-on-Hudson School District and its board of education are dedicated to working with our partners to provide the best educational experience for our children, providing an atmosphere where all students can learn. Together with the PTSAs, Hastings Special Education Parent Teacher Association, Hastings Education Foundation and other community groups like the boosters club, we strive to offer a high quality and balanced academic program that is focused on preparing our students to become active, positive community members.

information on programming for the 2016-17 academic year. • By sponsoring parent meetings with administrators at Hastings High School, Farragut Middle School and Hillside Elementary School to discuss issues specific to students with learning differences. Expect to see at least three such meetings at each building this year. • By funding teacher grants. Over the years, SEPTA has been delighted to support events and programming in the schools by funding grants submitted by teachers supporting students with learning differences. • By sharing resources. SEPTA has an extensive resource guide available on the SEPTA page of the district’s website and Facebook page where information is regularly shared on local resources and upcoming events. SEPTA board members are also available to answer any questions about and help parents navigate the special education process. • By sponsoring and subsidizing parent events, including a monthly parent support group and Dad’s Night Out and Mom’s Night Out, which are evenings for parents of children with special needs and learning differences to get together in an informal setting. Hastings is an inclusive school district, which means children with and without learning differences participate and learn together in the same classes.

Research shows that when a child with learning differences attends classes with peers who do not have learning differences, good things can happen. SEPTA advocates for all students as the district’s special education program touches nearly all students in Hastings, at least in some way. Even if your child is not classified as having a disability (whether it be LD, ADHD, autism or speech impaired), he or she may have a 504 accommodation plan or receive services or some level of academic or social/emotional support at the building level, or perhaps your child is in an integrated co-teaching classroom, or your child has a friend who receives some amount of special education services or accommodations. While “special education” may be in SEPTA’s name, its membership is truly open to anyone who supports its vision that everyone has something to offer and that each child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow and achieve their maximum potential. SEPTA expects to remain busy during the upcoming school year with several programs that build upon the accomplishments of past years. To join, learn more and/or contact SEPTA board members, email hastings.septa@gmail.com or go to hohschools. org under the Community tab.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 19A

Hastings Education Foundation grants benefit students from k-12

he Hastings Education Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, was established in 1997 to offset declining state aid to schools. HEF’s mission is to enrich and enhance the curriculum and facilities of the Hastings Public Schools. HEF does this by raising money and giving it back in the form of grants to teachers, administrators and staff. Grant applications are carefully screened and must be approved by the principal, superintendent, foundation grants committee, foundation board and the board of education. Since HEF’s founding, more than a million dollars in grants to Hastings’ three public schools has been donated. Every student in Hastings has benefited from these grants. In May, HEF awarded another $65,000 for projects and programs to be conducted in the coming year. The foundation raises money in two ways. In the fall HEF mails an appeal to all residents and in the spring a fundraiser is held. In June, 300 people attended a gala party and auction at Captain Lawrence Brewery in Elmsford. A wide cross section of the community supports the foundation by donating directly to the appeal, by attending the annual fundraising event, donating goods and services to the live and silent auction or bidding on those auction items. All these contributions benefit the students of Hastings.

HEF is pleased to have made substantial awards to two innovative new district projects recently. One was makerspaces in the elementary and middle schools, the second a virtual reality learning lab for the middle and high schools. Last summer, the foundation gave $25,000 to assist in establishing makerspaces at both Hillside Elementary School and Farragut Middle School. Both makerspaces are heavily used and very popular. Part science lab, part computer lab, part workshop, part art room, the makerspaces are hands-on places where students are able to design, invent, tinker, build and experiment. HEF provided additional funds this year ($9,000) to acquire more of the most popular materials in Hillside’s makerspace and to add an exciting new technology, a 3D laser cutter to accompany the 3D printers in the middle school makerspace. Next year HEF will provide the first year of funding ($21,995) needed to create a zSpace virtual reality lab for grades 6-12. This zSpace combines a desktop computer, 3D glasses, a stylus and virtual reality software to create an immersive 3D experience. Originally developed for the Department of Defense, zSpace technology has been used in classrooms around the country to bring the sciences to life. Through interactions with 3D models, students might explore a human heart or the solar sys-

tem, experiment with gravity, friction or electricity, build a molecule or a biome, watch a chemical reaction, dissect a frog or construct a spaceship. These two projects represent HEF’s largest expenditures and are unlike anything already in place, but the continued generosity of donors meant that the foundation is also able to provide funding for other exciting projects proposed by Hastings teachers. These include: Hillside Elementary: 1) Learning Outside with Lawrence: A naturalist will conduct a program of outdoor science and conservation education with the fourth grade ($4,320). 2) Hillside Author Visit: A popular children’s author will visit with k-4 children and conduct round table meetings with their teachers ($3,000). Farragut Middle School: 1) “Midsummer Night’s Dream”: The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Company will return to conduct another residency with the eighth grade ($4,700). 2) Talking About Race in the Classroom: The consultant firm Border Crossers will conduct professional development for 70 teachers across the district ($4,000). 3) Green Screen Technology: New equipment and technology will introduce multimedia green screen broadcasting tools to the fifth grade ($2,000). 4) Spotlighting Student Art: To make it possible to document and display student artwork during class, an iPad and Apple TV will be

purchased ($939). Hastings High School: 1) Poet-in-Residence: A poet will work with high school students, especially 10th-graders ($5,000). 2) Coding Robots: Programmable robots will introduce students in the high school coding class to problems in robotic movement ($1,303). 3) Photography — Close up and Far Away: Macro and telephoto lenses will permit expansion of the Digital and AP Photography curriculum to these new areas ($1,441). 4) Reducing Our Clay Footprint: Introduction of a pugmill will allow students to make and recycle clay, thus reducing the amount of clay used, but expanding the curriculum to include educating students about raw materials ($4,000). 5) Steel Drum Ensemble: Established and expanded with foundation grants, the steel drum program will acquire two additional sets of drums ($2,400). 6) The high school science department will get its own 3D printer ($1,232). The Hastings Education Foundation is committed to the idea that strong public schools strengthen communities. A public schools foundation is a proven way to bridge the gap between state funding and a continuing need for innovative programs. HEF welcomes contributions — all donations are tax deductible — as well as input. Contact either of the co-presidents, Suzanne Page (4781523) or Samantha Merton (478-2679), or email HEFPresident@gmail.com with questions or to get involved.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Hastings PTSA addresses concerns, engages community

he Hastings PTSA wishes to express its deep appreciation to parents and the teaching staff for their continued support of our organization. The community’s annual membership and participation in the various fundraising activities enable the Hastings PTSA to enhance the academic experience for children in the following ways: 1) By issuing grants to teachers and administrators who need extra financial support to make our students’ learning experience a truly outstanding one; 2) By making available scholarship funds that support a range of activities, both academic and social; 3) And by keeping abreast of developments in the federal and state educational arena and advocating on behalf of the children in our district and all of New York State. Here are some accomplishments from the 2015-16 academic year: PTSA grants The PTSA awarded $20,198 in grants last school year. In addition, PTSA is thrilled to give a $30,000 grant toward purchasing new equipment for a muchneeded major upgrade of the Farragut playground, an initiative spearheaded by a group of dedicated parents. Other grants include: • Bringing the world-famous Ballet Hispanico to the high school, not just to perform, but to teach students — entirely in Spanish!

• Brining back a student, teacher and parent favorite, the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Troupe, to work with eighth-graders. • Renowned author Marla Frazee visited Hillside, keeping students rapt as she told stories about her childhood passion for illustrating and her inspirations for the books the kids know and love. After her talks, she personalized with drawings and signatures almost 300 books that the children had purchased. • In response to parent concerns, the PTSA has begun to address the issue of excessive stress among some students. To that end, PTSA supported mindfulness training for several staff members so they can serve as a resource for kids interested in pursuing mindfulness/ meditation. • Helping to cheer the varsity boys’ soccer team at the New York State regionals by providing fan buses for students. • Providing an opportunity for handson science learning by purchasing programmable robots for the first-graders. • Because of the overwhelmingly positive feedback from last year, the PTSA supported the Playwrights Festival led by Rachel Wineberg in collaboration with Hastings teacher Sarah Walters. Twelve plays written by a group of 15 students were performed and directed by over 25 students. • Also for the second year, we supported the Current Events program at Hillside, through which former Today

Show producer Claudia Heitler engages the third- and fourth-graders in in-depth discussions and activities about today’s news. Since it is an election year, Heitler led/will lead the kids through the complex ins and outs of an election, from primaries and caucuses to conventions to the final vote. Both of the above programs are now part of the curriculum and have been included in next year’s budget. In addition, Current Events will be expanding to the fifth grade at FMS next year. PTSA scholarships One of the PTSA’s most important jobs is anonymously helping families who struggle financially, by providing funds for class trips, instrument rentals, AP and SAT/ACT exams, etc. The PTSA is grateful to have been able to continue this work. In addition, they award several college scholarships for Hastings seniors. Engaging with the community PTSA parent meetings have continued to be well attended and informative. Topics of discussion have included keeping kids safe in a connected world, understanding what causes stress to kids and how to reduce it and explaining issues surrounding standardized testing. The PTSA has also continued to be part of Rivertowns Parents, a group our Rivertowns PTSAs formed several years ago, to create opportunities for the communities to hear speakers discussing parenting and school-related issues.

Hastings PTSA is pleased to be participating in the village’s Transportation Working Group, which is addressing traffic and pedestrian safety issues. The free mock SAT/ACT, combined with the parent panel discussion on college issues, has now gone from a pilot to a keeper as parents continue to express appreciation for the information this provides. PTSA also sponsors a first day of school breakfast at Hillside, a newcomers’ pizza dinner for families new to the district and a holiday party and staff appreciation lunches at each school to acknowledge the tireless efforts of the administrators, teachers and staff. And new this year, the FMS VPs created and distributed two invaluable guides for parents: a user’s guide to Farragut Middle School for fifth-grade parents and a user’s guide to Farragut Middle School for soon-to-be sixthgrade parents to ease these transitions. The PTSA has representatives at the community leaders meeting and continues to support Sew Can You, where senior citizens partner with Hillsiders, not just to sew, but to connect with one another, as well. This fall, on Nov. 10, the PTSA will honor veterans and active service members at all three schools. As this is a first-time event, the PTSA is looking for parents or community members to help brainstorm how to best honor Continued on next page

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 Continued from previous page

these heroes and to participate in planning the event. Fundraising Book fairs: The PTSA’s used book fair remains a crowd favorite. Children and parents could spend a few dollars and walk out with a bag of great books, the librarians replenished the stacks and students from the Children’s Village and the Graham School were able to come take all the books they wanted. Remaining books were picked up by a number of different groups for donation to elementary schools with high levels of poverty, Head Start and, thanks to a member of the NYPD, various shelters and group homes in the Bronx. The PTSA new book fairs at both Hillside and FMS/ HHS introduce the kids to the newest titles in both fiction and nonfiction. Logo wear and other fundraisers: The sale of clothing with the Hastings logo was strong this year, and the PTSA continues to raise funds by selling name labels for clothing and participating in Box Tops and Amazon Smile. The PTSA thanks local retailer DeCicco’s for its generous donation of several thousand dollars annually based on a percentage of receipts from Hastings customers. Advocacy The PTSA’s advocacy work has continued on many fronts. The PTSA testified before state legislators, had an article published in the Journal News and encouraged community emails to legislators on restoring full state aid. Finally, the Gap Elimination Allowance, which led to hundreds of thousands of dollars

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 21A being withheld, ended this year. The PTSA will continue the fight to restore Foundation Aid. The class size study, now in its fifth year, showed larger than usual seventhgrade classes. As in years past, the district has responded and is working on allocating additional staff for next year’s eighth grade. The PTSA backed parents’ right to choose whether their children take the grades 3-8 state standardized tests and are in discussions with policy leaders about the Common Core standards. Special thanks The PTSA would like to express our gratitude to Lisa Eggert Litvin, who as co-president of the PTSA has worked tirelessly on behalf of Hastings children. With her special passion for advocacy, she will continue to look out for the interests of students as she takes her place on Hastings’ board of education. The PTSA hopes those who have the time and inclination will reach out and become involved. You may want to help out with the newcomers’ dinner, sort titles at a book fair, hand out slices at Pizza Fridays at Hillside or head up a new community event. A good way to get started is to attend the general meeting in September and the PTSA parent meetings that take place every six weeks or so at each school. Being involved in the PTSA brings much personal satisfaction and is a terrific way to contribute to our wonderful community. Contact the PTSA with fundraising or programming ideas, comments and questions at hastingsonhudsonptsa@ gmail.com.

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Pre-K Class - fully enrolled Three’s Class - fully enrolled Two’s Class - very limited space available Meet Other Mommies

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The Masters School is a premier co-ed day and boarding school for grades 5-12 that enriches students’ minds, preparing them for success in college, career and life. All Masters students benefit from the boarding school advantage, including an active, 24/7 campus, 60% of faculty in residence and numerous learning opportunities in New York City. • Heritage of Educational Excellence since 1877 • Picturesque 96-acre Campus • Challenging Curriculum with 17 AP Courses • Globally Diverse Student Body • New 75,000 sq ft. Athletic & Arts Center • Vibrant Arts & 37 Athletic Teams

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Administrator: Judith Rotiroti

Questions? Call us at 478-2334 www.hastingspreschool.com fivecornersprogram@gmail.com

49 Clinton Avenue | Dobbs Ferry, NY | mastersny.org

PAGE 22A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

SCHOOL REPORTS Are you ready for another amazing school year, Ardsley? BY DR. LAUREN ALLAN Ardsley Schools Superintendent

his is an exciting time for all of us who play such an important role in the education of our district’s nearly 2,300 students. Students, parents, teachers and staff are all looking forward to the first bell ringing on Sept. 6, marking the start of a new school year highlighted by our students’ many achievements and exciting new programs. As we talk about what is to come, it is also important to reflect on the foundation we have successfully built. Three years ago when the community developed our strategic plan, we set our sights on increasing the focus on STEM programs throughout the district. Since then, we have accomplished a great deal. At Ardsley High School we created a three-year science research program and last year celebrated Ardsley’s first semi-finalist in the Intel Science Talent Search, two grand prize winners in the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair and three medal winners at the International Genius Olympiad. Throughout the district, we have increased access to technology by creating wireless campuses at all three schools, making Chromebooks, iPad carts, Mac labs and Apple TV available

to most classrooms, and investing in advanced hardware and software such as poster printers, 3-D printers, laser printers, CAD and other software solutions. Combined, these technology assets are allowing us to enhance our curriculum to include more complex opportunities for problem solving and critical thinking. Last year, we introduced our first computer science classes at Ardsley High School (Introduction to Computer Science and AP Computer Science) and enhanced the engineering seminar at Ardsley Middle School. At Concord Road we piloted the MakerSpace program with third graders, teaching skills that are the substance of further technology learning. New courses, curriculums, classrooms This year, we will build and expand upon these foundations. At Ardsley High School we are doubling our computer science offerings, including two AP classes. he Concord Road MakerSpace program is expanding to include all classes in grades 2-4 with age-appropriate exercises that follow a progression of skill building. Leveraging our increased access to technology, teachers throughout the district continue to expand their use of new applications and web-based tools that enhance the learning process. In order to implement engineering across the district, we have committed to a new rigorous, articulated

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k-12 curriculum called Project Lead the Way (PLTW)™. It is a highly effective, multi-year program that is widely used across the country and has proven success. PLTW™ is an activity, project and problem-based curriculum that gives students the chance to apply what they know, identify problems, find unique solutions and lead their own learning. This summer, teachers from all three schools attended training and will begin implementing new coursework and classes in September. At Concord Road, fourth graders will experience new units on Energy Conversion and Energy Collisions. The seventh-grade engineering seminar at Ardsley Middle School will focus on Design and Modeling, while the eighthgraders will be exposed to Automation and Robotics. High school students registered for our first Introduction to Engineering class, which focuses on applying engineering, science, math, and technology to solve complex, open-ended problems in a real-world context. We are also introducing Active Learning Classroom (ALC) environments at both the middle school and the high school. At Ardsley Middle School the new classroom will be a shared resource located in the library, while at the high school the classroom will be dedicated to the computer science and engineering classes. But what is an ALC? It is a term used to describe a student-cen-

tered, technology rich, learning environment. Students will sit at a large crescent shaped conference style table that surrounds a group work table equipped with laptops and switching technology that connects them to projection systems. There is an instructor’s station, which allows the teacher to select and display table-specific information. This new design reconfigures the learning space in a way that promotes collaboration, creative thinking, problem-solving and puts the student at the center of the learning process. We invite you to visit the ALCs on open-house nights and we will be assessing the effectiveness of the environment as the year progresses. These new enhancements to our curriculum and technology resources are extremely exciting. We thank the entire community for its ongoing budget support and making it possible for us to offer these opportunities to our students. Through the generosity of the Ardsley Education Foundation, PTA and our parents who continue to be our partner, we are able to provide resources that allow us to implement advanced programs and help make us a leading, sought out school district. New year, new faces Throughout the district, we welcome new administrators, teachers and stuContinued on next page

The Beginners Club Join our unique, fun-filled After-School Program For Kindergartners and First Graders Creative Playtime and a Kaleidoscope of Enrichment Activities

Yoga ames tdoor G u O & Indoor Karate

Creative Arts Woodworking & Clay Homework

Cookin g Dance Music & Mov ement

September through June Open Daily 3:00pm to 6:00pm

Plus snow days, holidays & school closings by arrangement

“Just September” Kindergarten Only WHY: Kindergarten days end at noon in September. If you would like after school enrichment... a short school bus ride will bring your child from Hillside to the First Reformed Church in Hastings. There they’ll enjoy the afternoon with their healthy snack and playful, enriching activities. Our cheerful space mirrors the Kindergarten experience for a smooth transition in your child’s day. WHEN: September 2016 TIME: 12-2:00 pm or stay on until 6:00 pm

For registration, call: 478-2334 Patti Otivich: 478-4122 or Judith Rotiroti: 478-0538 18 Farragut Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson

fivecornersprogram@gmail.com

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 23A Keeping the community informed We are always looking to improve communication with our parents and community. We have adopted a new web platform that provides us more flexible and robust communication tools. The platform is the basis of our newly designed website and all teachers will use the platform to launch new class pages as school begins. Our goal is to provide the community with informative go-to places that are timely, relevant and easy to access. Through email, you can look forward to time sensitive updates, Sharing Successes, Noteworthy News and community events information. We have also moved all emergency contact information to reside with the Parent Portal. If you have not done so, please log onto the Parent Portal, click on your child’s student ID number to access your records and verify your contact information. Board of education meetings will continue to be held on Tuesday evenings and are open to the community beginning at 7 p.m. Every month we discuss a specific aspect of the curriculum or new initiative within the district. We welcome you to join us in person or to watch video of the meetings on our website. Information on Back to School Nights, board meetings, student orientations and more are listed in the online district calendar, so please mark your calendars. In closing, on behalf of the board of education and the entire faculty, we welcome you to the 2016-17 school year and look forward to reconnecting with our students and their families.

Continued from previous page

dents. It is anticipated that over 140 new kindergartners will join our district and begin their school careers in Ardsley. An additional 41 students are also currently expected to join our families at CRS, AMS and AHS. Serving the entire district, Michael Ramponi has joined the Ardsley family as the new director of athletics, physical education and health. Mike joins us from the Nyack School District and is committed to supporting programs that provide our students with the opportunity to pursue excellence while gaining an appreciation for commitment and teamwork. At Concord Road, Christina Dold will be teaching third grade, Matthew Kennedy science and engineering and Erin Dawson music. At Ardsley Middle School, Michelle Borthwick and Helen Canaras will teach English language arts, Julia Cardo Earth science, Lauren Smith special education, Vittoria Stillo Italian and Spanish, Salvatore Silvestri science and Lisa Zimbali joins the guidance team. In addition, at Ardsley High School, Katherine Constan returns to our district to teach social studies along with new teacher Samantha Marciano, Kristen Johannes will teach special education, Kaitlyn O’Flynn and Patrizia Venturini science and Dan Wexler English. We invite you to meet them in person at each of the schools’ Back to School nights and at the first board of education meeting of the school year on Sept. 13.

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AEF funds important projects, programs The Ardsley Education Foundation (AEF) works to fund projects and programs that help to enrich the lives and education of Ardsley students. AEF works closely with school administrators to identify and fulfill funding requests in all three schools and to ensure that the initiatives funded align with district initiatives. Over the past few years, the majority of AEF’s focus has been on innovation and technology. The foundation continues to support these initiatives, welcoming requests of all kinds to be submitted to allow teachers to provide students an enriched learning experience. AEF has funded iPads and Chromebooks across the buildings, last year purchasing a dedicated set of iPads for the Concord Road science team to enhance the research and learning options for students. The use of iPads promotes classroom collaboration amongst the students and allows them to observe, investigate, record and share results. Concord Road’s art department has a new kiln, Chromebooks in health are used by all students in the middle school and the technology classes received a new 3D printer. At Ardsley High School, AEF, along

with a grant from the Thomas & Agnes Carvel Foundation, purchased live streaming video equipment. This equipment is used by the video production group in the recently dedicated Jim Haubner Production Studio at AHS. It is expected this year the equipment will be used to livestream events and athletic activities throughout the year. AEF continues to provide funding for Concord Road’s Makerspace, a creative, out-of-thebox program where elementary students gain hands-on experiences. Makerspace supports STEM initiatives and is intended to create passionate learners through innovation using construction, woodworking, robotics, electronics and more. Over the past year, AEF has also funded microscopes for AMS science, robotics and DECA tools for success, science probes for AHS science, voice recorders and more. As we move into 2016-17, Concord Road will implement Leveled Literacy Intervention (LLI) with the help of a grant provided by AEF and, in conjunction with the Ardsley School District’s implementation of Project Lead The Continued on page 24A

Here’s what Parents say about GHC Early Childhood Center GHC's faculty and curriculum has prepared all three of my children for kindergarten in a warm and playful environment. The school is always flexible and receptive to our needs, standing ready with a strong community in both challenging and joyful moments. -- Heidi K. What makes GHC ECC so special is the people - warm, caring, professional teachers and staff. My husband and I feel like part of a community and our daughter loves school. She especially loves sharing lunch with her friends during Club Lunch (extended day). Ilana has thrived at GHC ECC! -- Rebecca R. Join the growing number of families who have made the Greenburgh Hebrew Center Early Childhood Center their preschool of choice. Offering a unique blend of secular and Judaic curriculum our mission is to create an environment for two, three and four-year olds where self-confidence and self-expression are encouraged and supported. Our children are exposed to and participate in Jewish rituals, cultural practices, and holiday celebrations through song, story and art.

NEW FOR SEPTEMBER 2016: The Greenburgh Hebrew Center Early Childhood Center will offer new scheduling options to provide additional support to school families with 3 and 4 year olds. These changes include early drop off and a later extended day program.

For more information and to arrange for a tour, contact Amy Kessler, ECC Director at ECCDirector@g-h-c.org or call 914-479-1421 515 Broadway • Dobbs Ferry, NY • www.g-h-c.org/ECC

PAGE 24A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Ardsley PTA plans a year full STEM ahead

ARDSLEY EDUCATION Continued from page 23A

Way, AEF, along with the PTA and the district, has funded the purchase of furniture to build the first Active Learning Classrooms in the district at both AMS and AHS. The 2016 spring gala was great fun and extremely profitable. AEF thanks the community and all of the donors and sponsors for once again helping raise over $45,000, 100 percent of which goes back into the schools. Visit our website, ardsleyeducationfoundation.org, and like AEF on Facebook to watch for details on 2016-17 fundraising activities. The Ardsley Education Foundation was formed in 1995 and is comprised of parents, school administrators and community members who are dedicated to enriching public education in the Ardsley Union Free School District. The Ardsley Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Grants or special projects selected for funding by the Ardsley Education Foundation’s board of directors may be single events, pilot projects or ongoing programs. For more information, to make a donation, or to get involved, visit the website or email aef@ardsleyschools.org.

nce again, through the generous support of the community, the Ardsley PTA had another amazing year helping provide resources and events for students that enrich their school experience. Thanks to the many fundraisers and big-hearted volunteers, each school in the district has benefited from materials, speakers, technology and programs that keep Ardsley schools truly remarkable. Project Lead the Way As the Ardsley schools roll out Project Lead The Way in the fall to provide a dedicated engineering curriculum, the PTA has proudly contributed funds for a state-of-the-art interactive classroom to enhance the learning experience. Broadening horizons at CRE In addition to annual events like the Harlem Wizards, Movie Morning, book fairs, the BIG Read, spiritwear sales and Kids Artwork Mementos, the PTA also helped broaden students’ understanding and appreciation of the global community at Concord Road Elementary School. International Celebration Day was bigger and better than ever this year, with over 50 cultures brought to life through music, food, games and performances. Around the World assemblies with Lou del Bianco helped add to global learning through fun sto-

ries and anecdotes, and the “Two of a Kind” musical helped promote caring for the Earth and for each other. In addition, the PTA funded globes, maps and Native American artifacts for classroom study and several grade-specific events. Beyond the books at AMS The PTA was able to add extra dimensions to classroom learning in different ways at Ardsley Middle School. There were writing workshops with author Jeff Baron, an assembly with Juan Castano and students studying the Holocaust got to hear from a guest speaker who shared his personal experience of living through it. Wellness Week brought in a host of professionals that covered everything from nutrition to stress relief to physical and mental well-being. And to help make sure every student was able to take advantage of class trips, the PTA provided important scholarship funding for those in need.

phy, acting, body combat, nutrition and more. Some of the other PTA contributions included funding trips to “The Crucible” on Broadway and the Model UN, plus sewing machines, chromebooks, Science Olympiad supplies, art supplies and so much more. All this was in addition to the 13 monetary scholarships the PTA provided to deserving AHS graduates. Advocating for the district In an effort to keep the community informed and involved, the Ardsley PTA took the new step of holding public forums to foster information and discussion about significant issues, including the impact and choices of New York State testing and the future direction of the school district. In addition, the PTA provided detailed information to parents about the proposed Jefferson at Saw Mill River development. The PTA will continue to advocate for parents and students as important issues arise.

Ongoing wellness at AHS

A new year

Based on the past success of wellness fairs at Ardsley High School, this year the PTA helped launch a permanent Wellness Center for students to facilitate positive lifestyle changes and effective stress management. Wellness Week this year included speaker Shaun Derik from Youth to Youth International and workshops on dance choreogra-

What are the Ardsley PTA goals for this year? Anything and everything we can think of to enrich education, support teachers and schools, and maintain the Ardsley school district’s well-deserved reputation for academic excellence and community spirit. Learn more, sign up for email blasts or get involved at ardsleypta.org.

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OrthoCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation is a well-equipped, outpatient orthopedic physical therapy facility, conveniently located on Saw Mill River Road in Ardsley. All therapists are licensed by New York State and continually update their manual therapy skills and knowledge base to provide their patients with proven and reliable treatment strategies. Patients are assigned to a primary physical therapist to assure continuity of care, and treatment plans are individually designed to meet each patient’s specific needs. We provide physical therapy for treatment of overuse and traumatic injuries including, but not limited to: tendonitis, bursitis, sprains and strains, fractures, cervical and lumbar dysfunctions and pre- and post-surgical care. We participate in most major insurance plans including Medicare, workers’ compensation and no-fault. Ample parking is available. At OrthoCare Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation, we take great pride in the fact that our No. 1 priority has always been providing patients with superior physical therapy care. Hours: Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 25A

SCHOOL REPORTS Dobbs Ferry’s independent thinkers will change the world BY DR. LISA BRADY Dobbs Ferry Schools Superintendent

n the Dobbs Ferry School District, we know that “Independent Thinkers Change Worlds” and we model this theme in all that we do. As such, our instructional practices, curriculum offerings, elective classes, enrichment activities and extracurricular programs marry innovation and education each and every day. Perhaps the most immediately visible change is our new website, launched over the summer, which features new software and a remarkably fresher look and improved user ex- Springhurst students learn about composting through hands-on, grade appropriate lessons perience. Along with the district web- in the school’s outdoor classroom/garden. site, each school website has been Springhurst Elementary School, gressed at a rapid pace and is on track reorganized and redesigned. We think for completion at the end of August. www.dfsd.org/sh our parents and community will be Members of our community who At Springhurst, the excavation and inexcited about the new graphics and modern template which complement have been in town over the summer stallation of an entirely new artificial the district brand design unveiled two cannot help but notice the construc- turf field and four tennis courts is at years ago. The URL address for the tion work taking place at our facilities. full tilt, and these are also expected to District (www.dfsd.org) remains the The replacement of the tile roof on be completed in October. In addition our historic high school has encased to the new turf field and tennis courts, same. The new URLWeekly addresses for & the Daily the beautiful building in scaffolding, renovations include the parking lot school websites are as follows: Rates Available while the work on the high school/ and bleachers. To accommodate our High school, www.dfsd.org/hs middle school turf field has pro- soccer teams this fall, varsity boys’ Middle school, www.dfsd.org/ms JUNE 13 - JULY 1

and girls’ soccer will be playing their home games at the Masters School, Mercy College and Macy Park. Our modified soccer teams will continue to play their games at Gould Park. The sounds of summer on campus have been the endless “beep, beep” of construction vehicles, but we know that the temporary disruption will result in much needed improvements and upgrades supported by Dobbs Ferry taxpayers through the Capital Projects bond vote. Additional work will continue at specific times during the upcoming school year with the bulk of future work, including air conditioning at Springhurst and the high school gymnasium, scheduled for summer 2017. We are particularly proud of our most recent Springhurst initiative, which focuses on environmental preservation and the benefits of composting and waste reduction. The 2016-17 school year marks the launch of our very own on-site composting venture. This year we will begin to process our organic waste from the school lunchroom to create soil to nourish the thriving 28 organic garden beds in the outdoor classroom, as well as provide Continued on page 26A

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PAGE 26A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

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DOBBS FERRY

Continued from page 25A

mulch for all three Dobbs Ferry School District campuses. Students, families, staff and community members have joined together to help this project come to fruition and we are excited to see what this year will bring. The school year promises to be historical for our middle school as we move into the final phase of authorization for the IB Middle Years Program (MYP) accreditation that we have been working to attain with the support of our board of education and the Dobbs Ferry Schools Foundation. We are excited about the scheduled visit in October by the International Baccalaureate (IB) team. All of our faculty (both middle school and high school grades 9-10) have developed and implemented MYP designed units and are continuing to develop new units over the summer. ManageBac, an IB curriculum design system, is also being introduced this year. This tool will assist teachers in the creation and organization of MYP units. Members of the sixth grade team have already utilized it this summer. Next year also features the expansion of our STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program to grade eight In July, a team of administrators and teachers from Dobbs Ferry High School were chosen to present once again at the prestigious IB Conference of the Americas in Toronto. The district presented on the topic “IB For All: Promoting Equity and Access in the IB Diploma Program.” In 2016-17, all juniors and seniors will take at least two IB Diploma Program courses. On average, the juniors and seniors take three IB courses a year. Our students will register and sit for approximately 450 IB final exams this spring. Along with the middle school, the high school is preparing for authorization in the MYP this fall. Teachers at the high school have created MYP units across the subject disciplines along with at least one MYP interdisciplinary unit in grades 9-10. A new Introduction to Research course will be offered to all 10th graders start-

ing next year and all students in 10th grade will complete the MYP Personal Project by the conclusion of this course. There is a great deal of exciting curricular news at the high school where, beginning in September, we will offer AP Computer Science Principles as an elective option to all students in grades 9-12. This course will run in addition to our existing computer science elective course. The high school will also be offering two business electives and will re-open our connection to Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). The business electives include Sports Management, Marketing and Media and Business and Product Development. Since technology continues to be foundational to teaching and learning in our schools, the high school has created a formal digital citizenship curriculum for students in grades 9-12. The curriculum will be directly implemented in social studies and will be supported by all of the disciplines. Digital citizenship continues to be an important aspect of the student experience in our k-12 classrooms as the district is in year 4 of our 1:1 Chromebook program, which includes every student in grades 4-12. At the middle school and high school, all teachers have fully transferred to Google, including the use of Google Classroom. The Dobbs Ferry School District is proud of its contribution to this amazing community. The Village of Dobbs Ferry continues to garner recognition as one of New York’s most desirable places to live and we know that our schools play an important role for families who want to raise their children in a small-town environment with access to the finest public schools. We believe that we will end this school year with IB MYP accreditation in grades 6-10 that will nicely link with our vibrant IB Diploma Program in grades 11-12. Our partnership with the International Baccalaureate makes us truly unique among New York public school districts and continues to fulfill our district mission of creating “Independent Thinkers Prepared to Change the World.”

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 27A

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BY MARY LEGRAND

COURTESY OF LESTERS

ard to believe, but it’s time once again to get the kids ready for going back to school. And part of that process for many parents is going through their children’s wardrobes to ensure that clothing still fits and remains classroom-worthy. As a result, most children will make at least one shopping trip to add onto their wardrobes before school begins. A number of clothing trends are hot this fall, and local retailers are happy to advise parents on what their kids are looking for. Hannie Sio-Stellakis, public relations manager of Neiman Marcus Westchester in White Plains, spoke about Neiman Marcus’s “contemporary” customer, most often a teen or college student. She said the market for what that customer wears closely mimics the overall trends in women’s fashions this fall. Clothing items with ripe berry shades — “raspberry to blackberry” — are one of the most important trends for this fall, Sio-Stellakis said. As far as other trends are concerned, she added, “We’re seeing everything velvet, and we’re also focusing on fall florals, with bomber jackets across the board from the contemporary lines up through the designer lines.” Continued on page 29A

➊ This young lady dressed in a Flowers by Zoe blouse, Lauren Moshi tee and Flowers By Zoe lace bottom legging, and her pal in the Butter racer hoodie and DL1961 jeans are outfitted for school by Lesters in Rye Brook.

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PAGE 28A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Fashion wiu a Flair

➋

➋ The Surell fur vest and

Uptown Sugar thermal tee are a perfect match from Lesters.

➌ Brandon is wearing a Billabong plaid shirt, a Hurley tee, Hudson Jeans and holding a North Face backpack, Anthony is sporting Under Armour shirt and Adidas pants, while Bailey is wearing Pinc Jeans, So Nikki tee, plus a Pop Trenz snack box at Neil’s in Scarsdale and Mount Kisco.

➍

➍ Taylor is wearing a Lola & Sophie top, A.G. Jeans, Dolce Vita booties and jewelry by Indigo Chic. Madison is keeping it real with James Perse tee, Generation Love bomber jacket, A.G. Jeans at Sam Edelman booties at Indigo Chic in Hartsdale and Rye Brook.

JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

➌

JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

Sio-Stellakis said she is seeing “a lot of gold, high shine metallic, this season, accents on shoes and handbags. It’s a pretty big focus. We’re also seeing a lot of chokers.” One of the big trends is called the adorned shoe by Sio-Stellakis. “There’s a lot of embellishment like beading,” she said. “Velvet is very big in footwear, with velvet booties and shoes popular for use throughout the fall. The same color trends apply, with deep jewel tones also very, very big, along with black velvet booties.” Sio-Stellakis said teens and young women will be wearing “flowy” dresses with voluminous skirts “that move.” The dresses will be often be in fall florals. Teens and young women have been flocking to Neiman Marcus in August “to see what we have lined up for fall,” SioStellakis said. “Our customers are also looking for key pieces, including a great jean or boot that they can carry through from fall to spring. Leather is always popular, and in seasons past there has been warm-weather leather that transcends into fall.” Elaine Andriotis, owner of Beginnings Bleus in Armonk and Beginnings Boutique in Scarsdale, spoke about a wide range of this year’s fashion trends. In addition to women’s clothing suitable for the “mother-daughter” crowd, she sells men’s clothing, too. “Thermals are big, as are skinny jeans for young men,” Andriotis said. “Crazy socks are huge, because the boys and young men wear their pants short. These socks have umbrella patterns on them, baseballs, footballs, fish, in all different colors.” Girls are “into the socks, too,” said Andriotis, the mother of children 17 to 29. “Cropped jeans are huge — they roll them up and wear them above a bootie; the sock goes above that.” Trends this year, according to Andriotis, include bomber jackets, which seem to be a universal observation by those interviewed for this article. Whether worn by males or females, the bomber jackets can be embellished with patches or embroidery, both of which are “huge” trends, she said. “Patches are big — they’re the perfect embellishment, no matter where they’re attached,” Andriotis said. “Bomber jackets can come plain but we can always put patches on them.” Andriotis said there can be basic similarities in children’s and teens’ fashion when compared to what adults would wear, but said differences apply. “Think of ripped jeans,” she said. “Everyone has them, but some clothing items are not appropriate to wear with them if you’re older.” She looks forward to the beginning of all seasons,

COURTESY OF LESTERS

Continued from page 27A

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 29A

“But this is the time of the year when all the fun stuff comes in. Back to school is particularly exciting.” With the first day of school now close at hand, “This will be our big boost,” she said about the number of customers coming through the doors at the two Beginnings locations. “Everybody wants to wear what everybody else is wearing, wants to be part of it, I think.” Velvet is making a big comeback—velvet tops, velvet skinny jeans, Andriotis said: “And then there are the coated jeans too. Lace is very big, and the other thing is layering, putting a blouse or flannel shirt underneath the crop sweater.” The flannel shirts can come in many colors, with Andriotis seeing them in blues, reds, grays and greens. Accessories add interesting touches, and Beginnings has “lots of scarves, even for the guys,” Andriotis said. Look for tech gloves and cashmere gloves with skeleton patterns or hearts and stars. Stars are super popular, even on denim skirts. Chunky chokers necklaces, in different lengths, some adorned with leather, are trending now. Talking generally about fashion trends, Andriotis said skinny jeans “came in when Angelina Jolie was wearing them. It took forever for everyone to believe in them and now skinny jeans are pretty much the only things they wear. And every single company — high end, low end — has clothing featuring open shoulders.” Rene Shapiro, founder of Mixology, with shops in Scarsdale and the Rye Ridge Shopping Center, said her company’s customers range “anywhere from 12 to 64.” Shapiro echoed the feeling that fashion trends for girls and women “are definitely similar, just a little different. Everyone is going to wear offthe-shoulder or cold-shoulder tops. It might be a crop for a teen, but longer, more sophisticated for someone like myself. Everyone wears frayed cutoff jeans, but the younger version will have more rips.” Bomber jackets and anything with a frayed edge — from jeans and jackets to skirts — are also very strong, Shapiro said. Lace-up tee shirts or blouses are very popular as well. “Dresses are very popular, and the girls love wearing them with sneakers,” Shapiro said. “These can be tee-shirt dresses and they can be plain or have a lace-up in the front or a collar. Then there are also the mini-skirts, trending for back to school. As far as colors are concerned, we’re seeing a lot of olive, army green, lots of wine and berry tones. Of course, navy is always big, but this year it’s definitely the berry and jewel tones.” Mixology doesn’t carry footwear, but Shapiro noted that “all the girls are wearing Adidas, Sam Smith, with their little dresses and skirts.”

JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

➎

Continued on page 30A

JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

COURTESY OF LESTERS

➐

➏

➎ At Neil’s, Anthony leads the charge with a Nike Giants jersey,

Adidas pants, Banner 47 hat and Nike lunch box, Bailey goes with Butter sweatshirt and sweat pants, and Brandon rocks a Billabong sherpa hoodie, Adidas tee, Alternative Apparel joggers.

➏ Thanks for Lesters, her outfit is by Design History, Chaser, So Nikki and Steve Madden, while the young man is ready to go thanks to 7 For All Mankind, Chaser, Appaman, State and Converse.

➐ Taylor is ready for school with a Generation Love sweat-

shirt, leggings by Koral and sneakers by J. Slide. Madison is wearing a Lola & Sophie top with Lux Junkie tank underneath, leggings by David Lerner and jewelry by Indigo Chic.

PAGE 30A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Fashion wiu a Flair Chokers are the hottest trend right now in accessories. At Mixology, “They come in velvet and suede, or are crocheted and in metal,” Shapiro said. “There are long chokers that you can tie around the neck and hang almost like a lariat.”

Rachel Uchitel, owner of Wyatt Lily in Scarsdale, carries clothing for newborns to 14-year-olds. She does all the buying, hand selecting everything herself. “We pick brands that are different from other retail shops, making sure everything is in special fabrics that are stretchy, comfortable,” Uchitel said. “Kids don’t grow out of their sizes im-

➑ ➑ Brandon is wearing Duke sweatshirt, Adidas joggers and a Nike Elite backpack, Bailey So Nikki lace up top, Patch leggings and holding a Pop Trenz backpack, Anthony Under Armour pants, Under Armour sweatshirt, a Knicks hat and Knicks lunchbox at Neil’s.

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JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

➒

JIM MACLEAN PHOTO

Continued from page 29A

mediately,” which pleases parents, for obvious reasons. Uchitel said that with brands like Imoga, which she called her favorite back-toschool line, “Kids can look really dressed up, but at the same time not overly dressed. They can put on a great dress and look so put together, but there’s nothing that fits uncomfortably.” This year’s trends include “a lot of faux fur,” Uchitel said. “Colors this sea-

son include navy with hints of gold, with pink and a little bit of burgundy. A lot of my items are in blues, pinks, lavenders, golds and silvers.” Wyatt Lily also carries Dori leggings by Dori Creations. The leggings, which Uchitel called “fantastic,” come in a variety of colors and patterns. “Patches are really in and we carry a lot of patches and stickers to put on book bags and backpacks,” she said. “We also have a custom monogramming department — you just wait 10 minutes or so. We can add monogramming, glitter, anything to a tee shirt or bag. Sometimes it’s the school name or child’s name, or for younger kids fun things like ‘King of Time Out.’” Mixology also carries children’s jewelry, along with hats, sweatshirts and “fuzzy, comfy sweatpants with football, baseball and soccer patterns,” Uchitel said. “For boys, we have really nice button-down shirts if they want to be more dressed up.” With all of these options, students will be ready, and then some, when the proverbial school bell rings for the first time in the coming weeks.

➒ Taylor finishes with a Generation Love top, J Brand jeans, Steve Madden slip on sneakers and jewelry by Indigo Chic. Madison ends with a top by Generation Love, Flying Monkey jeans, Dolce Vita boots, jewelry by Indigo Chic and bag by Inzi.

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 31A

Mentors are key to success at all education stages

BY TODD SLISS

here were always teachers I latched onto, so-to-speak, the ones I connected with. I often did better in their classes. They understood me and allowed me to be me. This was in elementary school, junior high/middle school, high school and college. These mentors each helped shape the next phase of my life. I had certain teachers who got me more excited about certain subjects, the same subjects that other teachers couldn’t reach me in. Or maybe it was just their personalities made me eager to show up for class. Either way, any time a teacher can make a student excited out of nowhere, it’s a good thing. Once I got into newspaper reporting in college, the student editors there were my mentors. We took what we learned in the classroom — actually many things we had not yet learned in the classroom — and put it into motion on our own. That was a learning experience, but I got through it by listening to those who were more experienced than I was. I had three sports editors in college before I took over in that position for a couple of years. I had a few editors who prepared me to become the managing editor (that was our second in command) later on.

The role of mentors in a student’s life, whether they be staff, faculty, fellow students or professionals from the real world, can’t be overstated in offering another dimension to the growth process. And, yes, the process is a long one that starts at birth with parents, grandparents and siblings and continues down a more traditional path of mentorship. All these mentors are people you never forget. When your grades no longer factor into your success, their teachings do. And sometimes, thanks to social media, you get to reconnect with them many years later. (Well, that’s how it was for a nearly 40-year-old like me, not for today’s students, of course.) I reached out to some who understand the significance and here’s what they had to say: Rajesh Kumar is the Director of PACT at Mercy College in the Center for Student Success and Engagement/Personal Achievement Contract: Why are mentors important? What impact can they have? RK: Mentors provide students the opportunity to build a personalized relationship to encourage collaboration, development and implementation of the student’s customized plan or life goals. The impact is that PACT mentors can assist in achieving the students’ ac-

ademic, career, and life goals. How do students find mentors? RK: Students can find mentors through our website, or visiting the PACT offices. In most instances, a student is contacted by a PACT mentor when they register. What are some good ways to stay well connected? RK: Some PACT mentors have Mercy College Facebook accounts. Some are connected through LinkedIn. Most students stay connected with their PACT mentor via phone, email or in person. Jill. C. Hart is the senior director of career services at Mercy College, focusing on professional mentors: Why are mentors important? What impact can they have? JCH: Students need to actively prepare themselves for their careers while they are in college. Mentors are a key component to a student’s professional development. It’s not to say one can’t be successful without a mentor, but having a good one can really enrich the journey from college student to professional. Mentors help guide and develop college students, listening to them, sharing personal anecdotes, providing advice and guidance based on their experience. They can help the student by reviewing their résumé, suggesting internships and skills to build, doing

mock interviews, informing the student what a career is really like in their field, looking for ways to expose the student to the workplace. Students should not expect that a mentor relationship will result in an internship or job. How do students find mentors? JCH: I encourage students to think about their current network, the people they already know who might be willing to mentor them. Sometimes that means family friends, neighbors, past employers or professors. Often alumni will sign up through alumni relations to mentor students. Students can also join professional organizations or clubs to meet people in their field of interest. In seeking a professional mentor, students should look for someone who has experience or expertise they are seeking, and someone who is willing to spend some time together, now and into the future, developing a personal relationship. If a student needs some help figuring out how to find a professional mentor, we encourage them to make an appointment with the career services team. What are some good ways to stay well connected? JCH: Students need to take the lead in building the relationship with their mentor. In a formal mentoring relationContinued on page 32A

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PAGE 32A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

MENTORS

Continued from page 31A

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ship, it works well to decide the conditions under which they will work: how often they will meet, expectations, etc. Mentors are often very busy in their own careers and while they care about the student and want to be responsive, they have many responsibilities of their own to balance. In any circumstance, the student should expect to be the one to reach out to the mentor, always being respectful of the mentor’s time. I suggest to students who are being mentored that as they graduate from college and begin their own careers, they should turn around and give back to someone else through mentoring. Adele Shansky is director of volunteer services for the Westchester Community College Foundation. She runs two mentoring programs, one on campus for students to connect with faculty, the other for business majors to get together with professionals for their spring semester. What are the benefits of the two mentoring programs? AS: The student/faculty programs gives them someone on campus to be their point person for any of their needs — career planning, curriculum, to find out what’s going on on campus, point them to the tutorials. They help them get adjusted to college life. For the corporate one, most of the students participating in the program

are first generation and don’t have role models in the business world. It gives them a chance to see the corporate world, gives them a chance to see what’s involved and it really gives them a chance to explore their career options so they end up in the right place, studying the right thing. In both cases they have got wonderful role models who they can model themselves after and go to and ask any questions of. Do students ever find their own mentors? AS: That happens on campus all the time. Some of the professors who have volunteered to become mentors for us tell us they are also mentoring others. It’s a wonderful thing. When I was in the corporate world I always found mentors within my department, within other areas of the company. Does having a mentor impact success in future? AS: I think it does… We have a group of scholarships that require a mentoring component and our success rate in terms of retention of the students and them graduating tends to be much higher than our general population. Almost all in our business program go on to four-year school. Shansky ended by quoting a 1979 article from Harvard Business Review, which quoted Donald S. Perkins as saying, “Everyone who succeeds has had a mentor or mentors.” Shansky noted, “That’s still prudent.” Indeed.

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 33A

FAMILY TIME

If school’s in session… is it OK to vacation?

BY TODD SLISS

ome of the best travel times during the year are when school’s in session — things are quieter, lines are shorter, beaches are less crowded and you might even be able to score a nice deal. But are you prepared to take your kids out of class for a trip that could most often be done during a vacation week or over the summer? If you’re going to do it, recommends Roberta Long-Kelleher of Protravel International, do it while the kids are young. “If the children are in preschool, kindergarten, first, second grade, even third grade, it’s fine to take them out of school,” she said, adding, “For a couple of days when the kids are in the lower grades it’s fine because they really aren’t missing anything extremely important unless it’s a standardized test time. We’ve done that with our kids when they were little if we were getting a better deal or rate.” When the kids are older the schoolwork can be too much to take them out for more than a day or two. One of the ideal times for travel is between Thanksgiving and Christmas before everyone else is going away during breaks. “That’s a very nice time to go away,” Long-Kelleher said. “What hap-

pens is the weather is perfect in Florida and the Caribbean and the crowds are less. To me, that’s nice. I like when it’s not as crowded. You’re going to have fewer lines if they’re going to the buffet or at Disney. I prefer that time of year.” Popular travel times like Easter, President’s week and Christmas see warm weather and higher prices down south. But going a couple of days early can help you save on the flights, and the bigger your family, the more important it might be to save those bucks. “That’s an advantage definitely,” LongKelleher said. If you do choose to take the kids out

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for an extended period of time, in addition to bringing work and reading for you child to do while away so they still understand education is a priority — many teachers will give you assignments in advance, while others might be a bit grumpier about the whole situation — many resorts have educationbased kid clubs and activities. With the Ritz-Carlton the focus is the location, “always something about the environment where they are so they have a sense of place,” Long-Kelleher said. The Cayman Islands location has an underwater exploratory program. Four Seasons has something similar.

Going on a cruise can often be better during a vacation time — more kids for your children to play with. “We used to go on cruises during February break for a few years and the advantage to that is the kids meet other kids because they have the kids club and on the beach there will be other kids who are off from school as well,” Long-Kelleher said. Educational trips are becoming more common, but since they often need to be longer it’s tough to take the older kids out of school. “Now more and more parents want to experience the world,” Long-Kelleher said. “They don’t just want to say they’ve been there and done that.” Common destinations are the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Alaskan cruises and Hawaii. “There is a lot of adventure and hiking and biking on the island of Kauai,” Long-Kelleher said. Others include the Riviera Maya to see the ruins of Chichen Itza. And don’t forget about Paris. Lots of history and culture in both places. “I have families for their 16th birthday they will take their daughter or son to a special place,” Long-Kelleher said. “They’ll go to the museums and look at all the art. There’s a lot of education. Continued on page 34A

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PAGE 34A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FAMILY TRAVEL

Continued from page 33A

And travel is the best education ever. If parents are open to that and encourage their children, their children will learn a lot.” It worked for Long-Kelleher. Her daughter is now 27, her son 19. Her daughter spent a semester in London while studying at Syracuse. While in London she studied at the Globe Theater, in addition to traveling all over Europe. “Now she is actually a lead soloist on a cruise ship in Europe,” LongKelleher said. “She’s traveling and working and singing. She comes home a different person because she’s more well-rounded and well-educated and understands the world and people. There’s nothing like traveling.” Though you certainly need to be careful about where you travel these days, Long-Kelleher finds the world to be “a wonderful place” full of culture, sights, sounds and tastes. She wants families to travel “whenever,” and that’s “whether it’s for three days or three weeks. “Just to open themselves to the world, that’s the most important thing,” she said. “Also, not to have fear... Of course, there’s a lot going on right now, but it’s going on everywhere. Don’t stop traveling. And once they take their children and the kids are open to it and are exposed to the world they are going to want to do that as adults.”

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

EDUCATION SERIVCES

Setting up a great back to school transition BY DR. RAY HUNTINGTON It’s back to school time, which can be a source of nerves and excitement for many children. A little preparation can go a long way, however, to making your child feel comfortable and optimistic. Here are five tips for setting the stage for a smooth transition back to school this fall: 1) Start with an open conversation. Rather than launch into a one-sided lecture about what you expect from your child this school year, ask how he or she is feeling — and then simply listen. If your child brings up fears or struggles from last year, be supportive and positive. Offer encouragement by letting your child know that no problem is insurmountable, that together you can work through any issues and that the start of a new school year is a fresh beginning. 2) Make a list of goals for the year. After you’ve had the opportunity to start things off on the right foot with an honest conversation, talk about you and your child’s goals for this year. Focus all goals on making improvements (raising a grade or becoming more organized) rather than reaching achievements (getting all A’s). Also make sure to break big goals into smaller steps.

If your child wants to become better at math, what does he or she think are the necessary steps to make that happen? And how can you support that? 3) Get organized at home. Now is the time to get your home ready for the new school year. Have your child tidy up his or her desk and make a list of supplies that need restocking. Make a shopping trip for supplies for school and home, and be sure to buy a new planner and have your child write his or her class schedule in the front. Hang a family/school calendar in a central location. If you have your own system for managing school paperwork such as an inbox or folder in a home office, review that process with your child. Finally, designate an area for unloading backpacks, organizing papers, hanging jackets and storing shoes. 4) Get the brain school ready. The last couple of weeks before the new school year begins, have your child look over last year’s textbooks and assignments for subjects such as math and science — even if just 10 minutes each evening. If the reading has waned over summer break, re-establish that nightly habit as well. These efforts can help minimize regression and give your child a helpful refresher

on the things learned last year as well as what is to come. 5) Consider creating a school year contract. The switch from summer leisure to a school schedule can feel abrupt for many children. A supplemental agreement between you and your child can help. Set expectations and goals through a written contract that outlines your child’s responsibilities as a student, how you will support your child (and how you will not) and anything else you think is important to address (such as screen time or extracurricular activities). Remember to make this a constructive, encouraging process. It doesn’t take much to get your child mentally ready to return to school with a positive and motivated outlook. Make sure to model enthusiasm and optimism for a great year ahead. Assure your child that with hard work and a good attitude, good things will happen — and if problems arise, you will work together to correct them. Dr. Ray Huntington founded Huntington Learning Center in 1977 with a mission to give every student the best education possible. Visit huntingtonhelps.com or call 1(800) CAN LEARN.

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 35A

EDUCATION SERVICES

Regional reps play key role for college admissions

BY JANE C. HOFFMAN, MBA, CEP

ost admissions offices in colleges and universities are organized by region with admissions counselors assigned to geographic areas and identified as regional representatives. I live and work in Westchester County, where many of my clients attend high school. When I call a school to gain information on behalf of a client I’m often asked where I’m calling from. Since my response is Westchester County, I’m usually put in touch with the Westchester regional representative who is responsible for knowing all high schools in the county and handling queries from people in our area. That individual will also likely be one of the people later reading applications and making recommendations on the admission decision. Alternately, if that person is not available, I am connected to the counselor on duty for the day. Families are often unaware of the counseling role that good admissions representatives play. If students have questions, the Westchester regional representative should be their first point of contact. Students can enter into a dialogue, pose questions and expect to receive informed and helpful responses. Schools use their regional representatives as part of their outreach to personalize the

process for prospective applicants. Students should take advantage of the opportunities to connect in meaningful ways with their regional representatives. Doing so will put students on their radar and only contribute to the possibil-

ity of gaining admissions. It can be very helpful for students to introduce themselves to their regional representatives. In addition to making recommendations on admission decision, they can later serve as a potential advocate during any admission committee deliberations. Since the Westchester regional representative is likely the host of school-sponsored events in our area, I strongly recommend that students attend, officially sign in and personally introduce themselves at those events. Students can also email their regional representatives directly. Rather than simply write an email of introduction early on in their process, students might want to send an email after they have visited the school and are able to share a few specific and positive impressions based on their own interests. And if they are not able to visit, they can use email to explain that and pose a targeted question or two or share something specific about their interest in that school based on their personal preferences and priorities. Contact information for regional representatives is usually available on the schools’ admissions link on their websites. Jane. C. Hoffman of College Advice 101 can be reached at Jane@CollegeAdvice101.com or 8831573. Visit collegeadvice101.com.

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PAGE 36A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

EDUCATION SERIVCES

Professional tips to improve handwriting at any age

BY CATHY COLLYER, OTR, LMT

enough before the material is erased on the screen. Not every child needs intensive remediation. If the quality of your child’s writing or math homework doesn’t reflect their academic ability, then try these simple strategies that can make an immediate difference in handwriting legibility:

andwriting hasn’t faded away in schools, far from it. Current demands on early literacy and math skills are requiring children to learn to write letters and numbers earlier than in the past. Kids are also writing more at younger ages to prepare for standardized testing. Many preschools and kindergartens spend less time on targeted instruction and move quickly through handwriting lessons taught by worksheets. The emphasis is to get focused on spelling and calculation concepts as fast as possible. The results? Too many kids who say that they “hate to write” and what they do write is sometimes not legible to their own parents. Here are common problems that occur when handwriting instruction and practice has been insufficient for some children: • Kindergartners that draw their lowercase letters instead of writing them. • Second-graders who forgot their capital letters after lowercase was emphasized in first grade. • Third-graders that run out of writing space on a worksheet line. • Teens who can’t take notes fast

Pre-writers (under 4) Teach directionality and simple prepositions: up/down, top/bottom, across/around, etc. Children who immediately grasp a teacher’s instructions can focus on developing motor control for writing. Develop a mature pencil grip with little crayons, but also teach mature utensil grasp with spoons and forks held in fingers, not in a fist. Building the strength and coordination for good writing happens away from the paper too. Remind your child to use his/her nondominant hand, the “helper hand,” to steady containers as she cleans up toys into a container, pours a drink from a plastic pitcher, and puts toys together. He/she will automatically use that hand to steady him/herself and the paper when he/she writes. Continued on next page

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 Continued from previous page

Preschoolers Use crayons and markers with a short shaft to refine grasp and control. Resist using pencils until they can use a mature grasp pattern. Teach correct start and sequence of uppercase letters. (Hint: they ALL start at the top.) Don’t remember it yourself? Find a “Handwriting Without Tears,” D’Neilian or Zaner-Bloser workbook. Teach advanced prepositions such as diagonal, middle, and right/left discrimination. A fun way to teach left- and right-sided awareness is to teach your child to shake hands. Kindergartners Teach the importance of the baseline, midline (for lowercase letters) and letter/word spacing. Prevent reversals with clear borders and start/sequence rules for lowercase letters. The Handwriting Without Tears program uses clever chalkboards and gray block paper at this age to provide barriers that don’t allow a reversed “P” or “D,” but they also make a great “Transition to Kindergarten” book that prevents lowercase letters from starting incorrectly. Letters that are written inconsistently or started incorrectly slow down writing speed once writing volume expands in early elementary school. Clearly explain and demonstrate the sizing of lowercase letters. Once a

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 37A child can understand that the tall letters such as “t” are twice the height of the small letters such as “a,” you should see more consistency to lowercase writing.

pecially with proper nouns. This can signal that a child has forgotten letter formation and substituted the case he does recall.

First-graders

Cursive is a sloppy printer’s friend. The connections and the smoothness of cursive can correct a child’s problems with spacing and control in printing. Children can only get this “second chance” if they have enough instruction and practice to be a functional cursive writer. Give them the chance.

Teach kids to start filling in blanks on worksheets on the far left side. Excessive erasing to fit in an answer erodes a new writer’s confidence. Explain that older kids and adults start there in order to have enough room. Tell them that you are letting them in on the “secrets” of good writing that all grown-ups know. Review starting positions for lowercase letters as writing volume and reading explodes. Time is running out to change bad habits. If a child has been starting a letter incorrectly since preschool, it may soon be too late to change this habit that contributes to slow writing and poor legibility. Second-graders Teach respect for page margins. No one writes enough to worry about using an additional line, but crowding letters torpedoes legibility. Thick mechanical pencils help kids too busy to sharpen a pencil or kids who use excessive force when they write. A lead diameter of 1.3 mm is the equivalent of a No. 2 pencil, but isn’t as vulnerable to breakage and will not become a dull nub in the middle of homework. Check writing for case reversals, es-

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Third-/fourth-graders

Fifth- to eighth-graders Mechanical pencils save time and effort. By now, kids can use a fine point mechanical pencil. Blending print and cursive is fast and functional. Show them some examples of easy blends. The combination “ing,” for example, is faster to write in cursive than in printing. The word “but” is not. They could figure it out for themselves, but if you want to sell cursive as useful, you need to provide practical examples of this grown-up strategy. High schoolers Use a fine point gel pen. The gel pens that dry quickly are much neater for lefties. Now is the time to know how to take good notes. Research has suggested that recording a lecture verbatim with a laptop does not support longterm retention. Typing what is heard

doesn’t require a student to synthesize the information into a note. Selecting, organizing and recording the essential information stores the information more efficiently for later recall. Rejecting paper notebooks as uncool? Use a tablet with a stylus and note-taking program. Kids can write columns, draw diagrams and use arrows to connect information. Learn some abbreviations for notes — they are clever and useful. Examples: a triangle is the scientific symbol for “change,” a “p” with a line above it is a medical abbreviation for “after.” There are online sources for a list of common abbreviations that make note taking faster. Ready, set, write! These simple changes can transform a child’s performance and completely change their attitude about handwriting and schoolwork. If your child’s handwriting issues continue to slow down his or her academic progress or affect excitement about learning, then it might be time to pursue a professional assessment with an occupational therapist at school or at home. Cathy Collyer, OTR, LMT is a pediatric occupational therapist who specializes in handwriting evaluation, treatment and tutoring of children and teens in their homes. She can be reached at 282-2326 or cathycollyer@ msn.com.

Community Nursery School of South Presbyterian Church Established 1945 ~ Celebrating Our 71st Year

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Saturday, October 15 • 10am - noon

Programs for Twos, Threes & Fours • 71 years of experience with young children and families • Master teachers and experienced staff • Creative Curriculum™ based on a firm foundation of research, the importance of play in developing young minds, and authentic, meaningful experiences • Large outdoor play area with bikes, swings, water, sand, bunnies and gardens • Large well-equipped indoor play area • Nature, Music and Movement • Extended Day Enrichment Option for 3s and 4s • Extended year and summer session available • Non-sectarian program

For more information, call 693-9072 • Director: Linda Jo Platt

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www.cnsdobbsferry.com • Email: cnsdobbsferry@aol.com

PAGE 38A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAMS Ardsley Community Nursery has deep history The Ardsley Community Nursery School has been serving families from the local area for more than 50 years with a fun-loving environment run by caring staff and a strong enrichment program consisting of music, dance and movement, nature study and Spanish. Recently, the Ardsley Historical Society declared ACNS the oldest nursery program in the area. ACNS maintains the outstanding quality of a nursery school from 9 a.m. until noon, and additionally offers limited spots in a variety of afternoon sessions. Early drop-off is available for working parents. Programs are offered for ages 2-5 years old. A three-week precamp program runs in June, and a six-week summer camp program runs from the end of June through the first week in August. Children learn through carefully planned play experiences that include songs; arts and crafts; language, phonemic awareness and literacy; science and exploration; computers; multicultural humanities; and independence and social skills. ACNS is New York State accredited and follows both the NYS and Common Core learning standards for preschool. The school curriculum centers around integrated activities based on weekly themes that reflect the interest of students, such as dinosaurs, outer

Outdoors and indoors, ACNS provides a wonderful environment for children.

space, the Wild West, circus, animals, oceans and farms. Fun days include Halloween and spring carnivals, Valentine’s Day brunch for parents, Thanksgiving feast, holiday puppet show, beach day and Chinese New Year parade. All cultures are celebrated. ACNS is diaper-friendly and has the ability to include children with special needs. Children from all local areas are accepted. The school has a beautiful, shady playground with sandboxes, swings, climbing equipment, playhouses and mobile toys. Field trips are taken to

the nearby police and fire stations, the local supermarket, the library and the Greenburgh Nature Center. Children experience science and nature daily through taking care of plants and classroom pets, and hatching butterflies and chicks every spring. At ACNS, the goal is for every child to feel good about him or herself, make friends and love school. ACNS is located at 21 American Legion Drive in Ardsley. Call 693-4932 to obtain an application or arrange a visit or visit acnus.us or Facebook.

Beginners Club is "home" for K-1 kids The Beginner’s Club at 18 Farragut Ave. in Hastings-on-Hudson is a “home away from home” for kindergartners and first-graders, providing a warm, safe and healthy environment for children, rich with age-appropriate stimuli. The Beginner’s Club is theater-arts based, enriched with dance, music and movement. The program believes strongly in its emphatically professed and often repeated No. 1 rule: “To come here to The Beginner’s Club, you don’t have to be big or small, fast or slow, happy or sad. The one thing you must be to join us, is nice. You have to be nice.” Children are like snowflakes: no two are alike. Beginner’s Club truly understands and enjoys the uniqueness of each child with different wants and needs. Beginner’s Club aims to see that each child feels loved, respected, comfortable and appreciated, striving to build mutual trust between the teachers and the children. Beginner’s Club believes this is necessary for each child to benefit most from all the program has to offer. At Beginner’s Club, children are always moving and playing, always growing and learning.

Five Corners Nursery Program offers active, hands-on learning Five Corners Nursery Program in Hastings-on-Hudson provides a warm, loving, stimulating environment that allows preschoolers to develop self-worth and a positive attitude toward learning. Each class has a developmentally appropriate curriculum that emphasizes the different areas of development, including physical, cognitive, emotional and social. Five Corners has an accredited music teacher and an accredited dance teacher who come twice a week. Five Corners offers the Tiny Steps 2s,

3s and pre-k program. This is a teacher led introduction to an educational playgroup, which will feature music and movement, story time, messy art and much more. This program builds upon the Tiny Steps class, while incorporating new activities and adventures for the children as their character and individuality grows and matures. The pre-k group is focused on each child and their own developmental needs as they prepare for kindergarten. All programs encourage active, hands-

Ardsley Community Nursery School & Day Care

on learning with a mixture of self-directed and teacher–directed activities. Five Corners offers opportunities for children to develop math and science skills while measuring, mixing and cooking in a professionally equipped kitchen, enjoy story time, imaginative and dress-up play and participate in active outdoor play on our state-of-the-art playground. The school’s schedule allows ample time for free play and exploration, while also including more structured group activities and circle time. Five Corners

believes this is the best way to develop a child’s self-confidence and sense of community. The teachers at Five Corners Nursery Program hold degrees in early childhood development. Moreover, they are mothers who know the importance of giving children a warm and loving environment in which to learn, grow and develop. Visit hastingspreschool.com, email fivecornersprogram@gmail.com or call 478-2334.

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BACK TO SCHOOL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 39A

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PAGE 40A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

A preschool that prepares your child for the future

he JCC of Mid-Westchester welcomes families to its cutting edge early childhood center regardless of their religion, ethnicity, race or sexual preference. At its well-equipped center, children from 17 months to 5 years old are steeped in an atmosphere that provides tools to inspire creativity, learning, independence and joy. Children participate in age-appropriate educational activities, science, math, literature and world cultures, in addition to gym and gymnastics, swimming from the age of 3, nature study, music, creative movement, cooking and more. The JCC has tailored its programming to what parents say they value most, such as excellent educational programming, a flexible school day (half day, full day, etc.), a warm and nurturing environment, easy drop-off and pick-up, feeling closely involved as the child’s caregiver and additional activities under the same roof. Two key things differentiate this highly regarded school from all the rest: 1) The quality of the staff, who are all experienced early childhood teachers, many with master’s degrees, and 2) The vast range of after-school offerings at the JCC itself, which allows the children to move through seamlessly and gives parents peace of mind that everything is under one roof.

Just ask one of our 4s parents: “I love the teachers at the JCC. It’s no wonder that generations of parents have chosen the JCC. It’s family friendly and parents are frequently invited into the classroom. They’ve been very welcoming of my nanny and recognize her as an integral part of our family … Coming from the city, I have found it easy to make friends with other preschool parents.” Drop-off, pick-up The JCC allows parents to drop their children off without getting out of the car beginning at 8:40 a.m. The JCC understands it is difficult and time consuming for parents to get younger siblings out of the car for drop-off, particularly in inclement weather, according to nursery school director Caryn Symons. The JCC offers early drop-off at 8 a.m. and care after regular school hours from 3-6 p.m., which helps meet the needs of working parents and parents with other children on other schedules. Vacation, summer camps Unlike other programs, the JCC offers mini-camps during school vacation times, a huge perk for working parents and for families that may not have vacations planned during these times. There is also a highly regarded summer camp for kids ages 2 through high school. Many preschool parents keep

their kids at the JCC for the summer camp because of the flexibility it offers, its top-notch reputation in lower Westchester and to maintain consistency and familiarity for their young children. Many of the professionals and teachers continue through the summer as camp staff members. But don’t be fooled — the camps are very different from the school day in that they are filled with water play, lots of swimming and extensive outdoor time. All under one roof Unique to the JCC is the ability for preschoolers to take other classes after their usual school day, such as art classes, dance, soccer, super sports, karate, gymnastics and swimming. Children are escorted to their activities. Parents can benefit from this “all-under-one-roof” feature as well. The JCC also offers a special fitness membership to preschool parents at the rate of only $38 per month. Swimming According to Symons, “Swimming is one of the things that makes our school special. The children feel at home here and become comfortable in the water very quickly. Parents do not have to schlep from one location to another. It’s oftentimes the child’s favorite activity and is so much better than having to find swim lessons other places. The

Flexible school day The JCC offers full days or half days for preschool aged kids. “Some of my friends send their kids to preschools that only offer school from 9-12, then they’re scrambling to find other activities to keep their kids busy every day,” Symons said. “The JCC parents love that they can choose any number of days a week to keep their kids there for the extended day and that the extended day isn’t just day care, it’s actually themed. There’s math, science, reading, culture and swimming.” A one-hour after-school lunch bunch is also offered for kids who want to stay and eat a supervised lunch with their friends. Comprehensive school day Symons attributes the ability of the JCC to have such a comprehensive school day at the preschool level to the phenomenal facilities. “We have a pool, a large gym, three dance studios and an indoor motor room which is great for days when the weather isn’t great,” she said. Many other preschools in lower WestContinued on page 48A

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 41A

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PAGE 42A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment

Clocktower Players exemplify community theater

he award-winning Clocktower Players, resident theater company of the landmark Irvington Town Hall Theater, is thrilled to present a season of community-engaging musicals filled with laughter and fun, sure to captivate and excite the imagination of one and all. Clocktower’s “Best of Westchester” youth educational theater programs welcome all children, build confidence and enrich lives. The youth season includes: Pre-Troupe Acting Adventures, the cornerstone class introducing 4-6-yearolds to the world of theater through imagination and play; the beloved Kids Troupe (grades 1 to 4), which will delight in Disney’s “Mulan Junior” and “James & the Giant Peach Junior”; Jr. Teen Troupers (grades 5 to 8), which will shine in “Singin’ in the Rain Junior”; Teen Troupers (grades 9 to 12), which can’t wait to get started on the 1980s’ disco sensation “Xanadu”; and the Jr. Teen and Teen Troupe (grades 5 to 12), which will have a blast working on the favorite family classic, Disney’s “Mary Poppins.” “Clocktower has been an amazing experience for my daughter,” parent Beth Propper of Irvington said. “It has helped her with her confidence, her energy, her musicality, and — with her literacy! My child has had the most enriching experience leading her to enjoy reading, memorization and learning new vocabu-

lary, because — fabulously — the artists at Clocktower really make sure that the kids understand the meaning of all that they utter and sing.” Champions of diversity, giving voice to stories as rich and complex as the great tapestry of America itself, Clocktower Players Community Theater Adult Troupe has been honored to receive many accolades including Best of Westchester’s Best Local Theater Group, winner of five 2015 OnSTAGE Critic’s Awards, including Outstanding Musical Award, and selected by NY Theater Guide as one of the top five community theater companies in New York State. To kick off the season as only Clock-

tower can, theater patrons are urged to purchase tickets early for the Sept. 10, one-night-only sensational Tony Award®-winning musical “Dreamgirls” in concert. With a phenomenal cast and vibrant score that captures the Motown sound of the ’60s, “Dreamgirls” charts the tumultuous journey of a female singing trio who learn that show business is as tough as it is fabulous. From Oct. 14-23, Clocktower’s Adult Troupe will make you jump for joy with the Westchester Community Theater premiere of Broadway’s musical comedy smash “Sister Act,” a sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship and a reason to rejoice. Then, from March 18-

27, the Adult Troupe brings more theater fun to families and children of all ages with the international sensation, Disney’s “Beauty & the Beast.” This tale about finding beauty and love beneath outward appearances boasts an unforgettable score, enchanting characters, humor and hope. In a continued effort to share the gift of live theater with all youth, Clocktower is partnering with schools and local youth organizations to present special 10 a.m. school shows of “Sister Act” on Oct. 20 and “Beauty & the Beast” March 23. To end the season and begin the 40th anniversary celebration of Clocktower Players, a spectacular gala will take place in the spring. For details, auditions for “Beauty & the Beast” and all the latest CTP news, “like” ClocktowerPlayers Inc. on Facebook. “We’re going to have a fantastic time this season,” artistic and executive director Cagle McDonald said. “We’ve gathered a joyful, crowd-pleasing roster of shows for the entire family. I can’t wait to share them with the community.” Youth Troupes registration and all information can be found at clocktowerplayers.com. Show tickets on sale at irvingtontheater.com. For school show reservations contact troupes@clocktowerplayers.com.

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THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 43A

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment

CPD offers 250 weekly classes One of the longest-running and most respected dance studios in Westchester for over 30 years, Central Park Dance offers nearly 250 classes per week in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip-hop, lyrical and more, for all ages and levels. Open seven days a week, in addition to an exciting curriculum designed to nurture the talent of students and push them to develop into well-rounded dancers, all classes are taught by a staff of experienced, dedicated, and world renowned teachers. Under the artistic direction of Maria Bai, CPD’s preschool program, regarded as one of the finest in the area, invites children as young as 2 years of age to participate in introductory classes. Through age 5, tiny dancers enjoy age-appropriate activities that introduce classical ballet and a strong and accessible foundation through daily classes in fairytale ballet, tippy toes, hip-hop princess and tap. Bai and faculty also offer an extensive academic and pre-professional curriculum for more advanced students to work with outstanding choreographers in an intensive and immersive program, providing unique performance opportunities throughout the year. Additionally, the studio welcomes over 300 adult students each week in ballet, hip-hop, tap, jazz, stretch and tone, belly dancing, yoga, jazzercise and more, maintaining

its mission of health, wellness, confidence and growth for all ages. The largest dance studio in Westchester, expanding with a 2,000-square-foot fourth studio in 2016, Central Park Dance is also the ideal venue for the birthday party of any child’s dreams. Offering a full schedule all year long, the studio also offers summer performing arts camps and intensive programs for dancers of all ages. Miss Talia’s Boutique is located within Central Park Dance and is open late, seven days a week offering a wide selection of footwear, body wear, gymnastics attire and accessories at affordable prices. Central Park Dance will present their first (and then annual) “Nutcracker” production open to all dancers of the community on Dec. 17 and 18. Auditions will take place Sept. 11. Auditions for Remixx and Signature Dance Companies will take place Sept. 10. A studio open house is also scheduled for Sept. 11.

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PAGE 44A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment Equipping students for success at Hudson River Music School

r. Shin’ichi Suzuki once said, “Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.” At the Hudson River School of Music, or HRSM, the same could be said for the teachers, administrators and parent volunteers who run the school: they are working together to build children’s character through the joy of music. Founded in 1968, HRSM was one of the first schools in the Northeast to provide instruction by teachers trained by Dr. Suzuki, a world-renowned pioneer in musical education. But visitors expecting an old-fashioned institution steeped in solemn tradition may find themselves pleasantly surprised by the school’s dynamic atmosphere. As a nonprofit cooperative school, HRSM offers a close-knit, familylike environment. “We’re a small enough community that we all know each other and we can give each student very individualized attention,” director Amy Rosen said. “But we’re also large enough to give students some amazing musical opportunities and experiences.”

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By performing regularly, students at the Hudson River School of Music develop confidence, focus and poise.

Students from age 3 to 18 study violin, viola and cello at the school, and a new eurhythmics class has recently been added for 2-year-olds and their parents or caregivers. Eurhythmics teaches young children to respond to the tempo, dynamics, texture and style of music through physical movement, and prepares them to begin reading musical notes. In addition to participating in private lessons, group playing classes, eurhythmics classes, reading classes, fiddling classes and chamber groups, HRSM stu-

dents perform regularly throughout the year, in large and small venues, with professional accompanists. “It’s been so rewarding to see the kids performing out in the community,” said Anna Gedrich, whose two children study violin and viola at HRSM. “They always draw big crowds at the Ferry Festa and the Hastings Flea Market. Playing in those less formal situations is a great way to get them used to playing in front of people, while still having fun.” Public performance is one of the pillars of the Suzuki method, which is based

on the principle that a positive musical learning environment helps foster character in young students. The method encourages collaboration and mutual encouragement among musicians, and discourages competitive attitudes. Parents, while not required to play an instrument, are asked to play a big part in their child’s musical development. “Actually, we try to get the whole family involved,” Rosen said. “We like to see brothers and sisters at concerts, grandContinued on next page

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Continued from previous page

parents, you name it. We encourage the family to listen to music together, to talk about it, to make it part of the family life. With all of your loved ones cheering you on, playing becomes a joy.” The school also offers lessons for adults who want to join in the fun. As students advance in the program, they grow to appreciate all the ways their Suzuki training helps them in everyday life. Whether they are speaking in front of a group, collaborating with peers, or applying patience and discipline to a difficult task, HRSM students and graduates are equipped for success throughout life. As HRSM graduate Alejandro Cruz said, “The student-centered, caring, nurturing environment allowed me to grow into a musician of poise and confidence. More importantly, the teachers helped me develop a love of music and the violin that has followed me throughout my life and enriched not only my experience of the arts, but my day-to-day life as well. Great things happen at HRSM, and those great things last a lifetime.” Located in Dobbs Ferry, HRSM takes place after school from September through June. Contact Rosen at amyrosen.hrsm@gmail.com or 693-9481 or visit hrsm.org.

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 45A

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment Clubhouse Stars adds mindful yoga class Maryanne Reda saw the impact immediately. “We have always incorporated yoga and breathing into all of our groups and saw the benefits of five-10 minutes.” Reda is the owner and a teacher at Clubhouse Stars. This spring, Clubhouse Stars added a yoga class called “Mindful Kids Yoga.” Lauri Marks is a trained Karma Kids Yoga instructor and she facilitates the Mindful Kids class, as well as bringing some yoga strategies into all of the groups. Clubhouse Stars offers a playgroup for children 3-5 years old, Social Stars for ages 6-9 and Clubhouse Girls for ages 9-11. The first Mindful Yoga class was offered last spring and the class filled up quickly with both boys and girls. Marks intends to add more classes in the fall. In this day and age, children can be overstimulated and stressed out. We live in a fast-paced world. They are dealing with school pressures, homework, competitive sports and technology advances. Yoga can counter these pressures. Physically, yoga enhances flexibility, coordination, body awareness and strength. Mentally, yoga can provide a sense of calmness, improve self-regulation and increase concentration.

Play, Engage, Learn Fun for All Ages!

Participants can learn to manage stress through breathing techniques. Marks teaches calming strategies that students can bring into their daily lives. These include hand movements that can be used before a test, before bedtime or any situation that can be stressful. Other techniques used are mindfulness jars and coloring. All these techniques teach children how to self-regulate and relax. Children can learn body awareness and build self-confidence. Marks incorporates noncompetitive games into Mindful Kids for concentration, flexible thinking, and executive func-

tioning skills. “Yoga provides healthy ways to express and balance emotions,” she said. All of these skills are essential tools to function successfully in today’s society and benefits last a lifetime. But why add yoga to Clubhouse Stars? Mindful yoga is geared and adapted toward the needs of the students. As the Clubhouse Stars has helped children learn to navigate social situations, Mindful Yoga does just that. Studies have shown that children with ADHD, attentional issues and behavioral concerns benefit from yoga. Both Reda and Marks believe yoga helps children behave with mindfulness, which helps them act and react to situations in an appropriate manner. “Clubhouse Stars is a place where all children shine,” Reda said. Yoga means “union of the mind and body.” Both Reda and Marks believe just that. They practice yoga in their personal lives and believe its benefits are essential to begin at an early age. In addition, they facilitate different professional development workshops for teachers. For more information, visit clubhousestars.com or Facebook or call 674-1940.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment

Steffi Nossen free week/open house Sept. 26-Oct. 1 Join 79-year-old Steffi Nossen School of Dance to experience the joy of dancing. During the free week of dance open house from Monday, Sept. 26. to Saturday, Oct. 1, try unlimited age and level appropriate classes at no obligation. This is the perfect opportunity to experiment with a new dance technique or rediscover an old favorite. Try any of these classes, available Monday-Saturday, at the studios at the Music Conservatory of Westchester on Central Avenue in White Plains — across the street from the Westchester County Center — and on Mondays at the Church of Saint Mary the Virgin on South Greeley Avenue in Chappaqua. “I am very excited for my second year here at Steffi Nossen School of Dance,” school director Kristina Todd Nelson said. “I look forward to seeing both new and familiar faces in our studios come fall. Our programs here at Steffi not only give superb dance training but also nurtures our student’s mind, body and soul.” The Steffi Nossen School of Dance conducts a program of core classes in modern, ballet, jazz, tap and hip-hop for children 3 years old through teens and a full complement of level-based technique classes in modern, ballet, contemporary and jazz. Performance opportunities are available for all and live music is a part of

TEACHING THE JOY OF MUSIC SINCE 1968.

most classes. Moving Wheels and Heels, an adaptive class for dancers with physical, developmental, and emotional disabilities will hold its own open house. Wheelchairs are welcome. The faculty, all college-trained professionals with performing experience, transmits the joy and discipline of dance with warmth and enthusiasm to dancers of all ages and abilities. Each student is challenged to strive for their personal best and lifelong friendships are formed in our supportive, noncompetitive environment. Check out the new boys’ class for kindergarten to grade 5 and a toddler/care-

giver program. In the boys’ class, boys learn to create their own moves while working on strength, agility, flexibility and coordination. Popular music and the foundations of dance movement make this fun and inviting. Youngest dancers 1-3 years old and their parents/caregivers have a class of their own. This fun-filled program focuses on developing children’s motor skills, musicality and imagination through creative movement and movement games. Classes will take place in six-week sessions throughout the school year, providing many opportunities to meet new friends. Steffi Nossen will again offer the popu-

lar open-level adult classes in modern and ballet. Whether you are a returning dancer or one who wants to learn a new skill in a relaxed setting, if you love to move, the adult classes are fun and a great alternative workout. Founded in 1937 by dance legend Steffi Nossen, the Steffi Nossen School of Dance offers a strong community-minded and leadership-focused educational model with developmentally appropriate dance instruction and performance opportunities for all ages and abilities. The school is owned and operated by the Steffi Nossen Dance Foundation, a not-for-profit dance advocacy and community outreach organization, which seeks to foster the arts in Westchester County. Through the support of the foundation, the school enables all students, including those with special needs, the opportunity to participate in their extensive programs and classes in a noncompetitive environment. A generous financial aid and scholarship program supports those with significant economic challenges. With a sterling reputation in the industry and a rich history, Steffi Nossen is a leader among dance schools, focusing on the growth of students’ mind, body, spirit and character. Call 328-1900 or visit steffinossen.org for class descriptions and schedules, faculty bios or to reserve your spot.

HASTINGS CENTER At the Hudson River School of Music, we provide a supportive environment for nurturing talent and musical expression. Private Suzuki violin, viola and cello lessons for children age 3 to 18. Also group playing, note reading classes, chamber ensembles, and a new eurhythmics class for two-year-olds and their caregivers.

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THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 47A

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment Studio B: new classes, programs, building Exciting changes are taking place at Studio B Dance Center. For over 20 years, Studio B has been providing quality dance education to children ages 2-18 in the neighboring towns of Scarsdale, Eastchester, Tuckahoe and Bronxville to name a few. This year Studio B is pleased to offer a brand new curriculum, Baby Ballerinas, for 18-36 months. This 45-minute class is taken with a parent or caregiver. A brand new program for this season, Create Your Own Combo, has become a fast favorite. This specially designed class for ages 6-8 allows students to create a combo class based on their interests. Combo classes can include hiphop, tap and tumbling. Also brand new this year, Studio B Dance Center is offering a free program open to all toddlers and their caregivers. Storytime With a Twist is a 30-minute story time that combines children’s’ love of books with their energy to get up and move. Calling all middle and high schoolers: if you love to dance and want to get academic recognition, join the National Dance Honor Society. This program combines dance with education and goes on a student’s school transcript. Members can be a once-a-week dance student or join the performing company. Studio B’s most dramatic change is a

Scarsdale resident and longtime student Emma Carnicelli with younger dancer Samantha Nasti at a Studio B field trip.

brand new facility located at 277 White Plains Road in Eastchester. The newly renovated building will have three stateof-the-art dance studios and two waiting rooms with one-way observation windows. All studios have professional floating floors and 8-foot high mirrors. With all these exciting changes, one thing remains constant, Studio B’s ability to provide high quality dance education in a noncompetitive, nurturing environment. Voted Best Party Place by Westchester Magazine, and in the top 5 of Best Dance Studios in Westchester Family, the studio is open seven days a week and has an extensive list of classes, many scheduled conveniently for siblings to dance at the same time. For more information, call 793-2799 or visit studiobdance.com.

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JCC MID-WESTCHESTER

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chester don’t have the luxury of big indoor spaces and certified professional staff across multiple disciplines like dance, yoga, gymnastics, aquatics, theater, art, etc. “As part of the regular school day we offer nature, yoga, music, sports, computers and more,” Symons said, adding, “It’s a play-based program at the JCC, but they are learning when they are playing, and I see that every day.” For more information, registration, scholarship questions and tours, contact Symons at 472-7095 or Symonsc@ jccmw.org. The JCC of Mid-Westchester is located at 999 Wilmot Road in Scarsdale. Visit jccmw.org. Full STEAM ahead As part of its commitment to combine play and education and offer cutting edge educational programming, the JCC Academic Center has just announced a new STEAM program in partnership with TEKITM, an educational provider who creates classes designed to teach students to be 21st-century learners by focusing on creativity, safe use and common core integration. Classes will include STEM engineering, robotics, MINECRAFT Worlds, animation and video creation and much more. These sessions are designed for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. For more, visit jccmw.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Music Conservatory introduces several new classes Music Conservatory of Westchester, a not-for-profit community music school in White Plains, will roll out several brand new classes for those interested in new and contemporary music. The offerings are aimed to expand musical horizons through the basics of jazz theory, harmony and improvisation. Additionally, students can explore their unique compositional voice and write original music. A music appreciation class is also available as are new large and small ensemble options including, respectively, Latin Jazz and Jazz Big Band and Jazz Combos and Rock Band. “We offer groups of every shape and size, from rock or jazz band, to Latin Jazz and Big Band,” explained Doug Bish, dean of students and faculty. “We’ll match you up with compatible players and you’ll receive weekly coaching with a member of our outstanding professional faculty. You’ll grow as a musician and have opportunities to perform at the conservatory and in the community.” For those jazz lovers, there’s also a jazz theory and improvisation class in which students will learn the evolution of improvisation and discover how jazz greats like Charlie Parker and John Coltrane mastered their art. “You’ll develop new ways to practice your instrument, understand the blues, use complex harmonic ideas and structures, and improvise in

styles such as bebop and cool jazz,” assistant dean Jake Robinson said. In addition to those enhancements, the conservatory is offering a songwriting workshop for grade 7 to adult, which will enable students to create and perform their original compositions. There is also a young songwriters class for those in grades 6 to 8. For those who simply want to share their love of music, music appreciation class Cover to Cover will discuss a different classic album — from Bowie to the Beach Boys — each week. The conservatory will also hold group classes in guitar and piano for teen and adult beginners. There is also a new Top 25 Classics for Bass class for students who can read music and want to perform

classic tunes by the likes of The Beatles, Temptations, Van Morrison and other top artists. Also offered is instruction in all styles of music on all instruments, including piano, voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, harp, harpsichord and organ. “Our highly qualified teachers use an individualized approach for each student, based on age, goals and learning style,” Bish said. “Lessons are available throughout the year, including summer.” Tuition to the lessons includes free music theory classes, discounted performing ensembles and free student performances, including rehearsals with a professional piano accompanist. Visit musicconservatory.org.

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 49A

BACK TO SCHOOL s Arts & Enrichment

Open Mic? Step on stage with confidence You can get the vocal training, coaching and exposure you need before stepping up to the mike at Dance & Theater Arts Studios in Dobbs Ferry, which features a group voice coaching class or private lessons for all singing styles. Entering their seventh year, Dance & Theater Arts Studios provides a professional dance floor, new classes and teachers. Located in the newly renovated, historic 145 Palisade St. building, there is plenty of parking, a pond and glorious Hudson River views. Dance & Theater Arts Studios is a small, affordable yet dedicated performing arts studio where students from age 3 to adult can nurture and explore their inner artist through a unique variety of classes in dance, singing and acting. Dance & Theater Arts Studios addresses all students from wherever they are in their artistic process, whether encourag-

ing new students or coaching and challenging the more experienced. Director Janetta Betz, AEA, SAG-AFTRA, is a well-respected teaching artist who has taught, directed and choreographed original and classic theater and dance pieces all over Westchester County for the past 18 years. “There are many wonderful theater groups in studios/schools throughout the Rivertowns, but we concentrate exclusively on skill enhancement with honest critique,” Betz said. “The stage is not the place to try out underdeveloped skills. Our classes and workshops are the ‘laboratories’ where taking risks and making mistakes are encouraged. “Producers, directors and musical directors do not have the time to provide the technical training that performers need to improve. Their job is to get the show up and running. Our professional performing/teaching artists are focused on the individual performer as they learn the technique that will carry them through their artistic process. They will then be properly prepared for the demands of the stage.” Some new classes for teens and adults are BYP Dance (barre/yoga/pilates), Group Voice Coaching, Acting/Improv and Swing Dance. Some unique classes for kids include Brain Dance and Animated Classics Song & Dance. Visit danceandtheaterarts.com, email janettabetz@optimum.net or call 2319179.

For adults, Alliance Française of Westchester offers classes from beginner to advanced. There are also book clubs, discussion groups, cooking classes and special events, plus intensive language courses for travelers to Francophone countries. The Alliance Française of Westchester is a member of the Alliance Française, based in Paris and founded in 1883. There are more than 1,000 Alliances world wide, devoted to teaching French language and culture. An open house will be held in September. Visit afwestchesterny.org for date and time or email info@afwestchesterny.org.

All things French at Alliance Française

Love returns to teaching Shirley Love, famous Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano, has returned to Scarsdale to teach after a year of teaching abroad and will resume her vocal studio in Scarsdale beginning September. Love performed at the Metropolitan Opera Co. for 20 years and throughout the world as both performer and teacher. She is interested in young singers who are preparing for music performance and adult singers who are or wish to become professional singers or choristers who wish to improve their abilities. Love can be reached at shirleysvoice@gmail.com. Visit voiceteachers.com/shirleylove.

Alliance Française of Westchester in White Plains is a language school and more — it’s a place to share an interest in all things French. For children and teenagers, it’s a place to enjoy language learning. Classes are ageappropriate for children from nursery to high school. All teachers are native French speakers. Children hear French spoken as a living language and there is an emphasis on communication. For teachers at the Alliance, French is not an academic subject, but a part of daily life. Classes are small, giving each student a lot of opportunity to interact with his/her teacher.

Soundview Prep School... could be a life changer.

There’s a place for everyone at the JCC DanCe SChool! Preschool-Adult | Boys & Girls Ballet | Contemporary Hip Hop | Tap | Theatre Jazz For more information, class schedules and registration visit jccmw.org or call Jayne Santoro 914.472.3300 x 320 The JCC welcomes families of all background, religions and sexual orientations 999 Wilmot Rd Scarsdale jccmw.org | 914.472.3300

Families choose Soundview Prep because of its rigorous college preparatory curriculum, its strong music and art program, and its uniquely personalized learning community (grades 6 -12) that fosters self-confidence and individuality.

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Private & Personal Guitar Lessons With an international performer musician/guitarist • Electric and Acoustic guitar • Lead and/or Accompany • Songwriting and Performance I focus mainly on the desire of the student, repertoire and theory (my students read music!), and of course the joy of being an artist! Lessons are up to an hour, at the student’s house.

Call or email Gilad at (914) 393-3922 gilad772@gmail.com

PAGE 50A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

Greenburgh Nature Center: a paradise for young children

ack to school is a busy time at the Greenburgh Nature Center as visiting preschool/school groups, parents/caregivers with children and the general public are welcomed. GNC offers a wide array of educational programs and classes, special seasonal events, camp and birthday parties for ages 3 and up. GNC’s goal is to promote an appreciation of nature and the environment. The 33-acre woodland preserve has trails, ponds, gardens, nature’s discovery playground and outdoor animal exhibits. The indoor exhibits include a live animal museum with over 100 specimens, exhibit areas focusing on nature and the environment, a greenhouse, as well as a gift shop. By being outdoors, interacting with animals and witnessing nature’s seasonal changes, children learn that they are part of a larger ecological community. The playground is a unique, nature-themed attraction designed to engage children in outdoor exploration and discovery. This recreation area serves children ages 2-12 and provides a variety of play elements which mimic the natural environment. GNC is committed to ensuring that today’s generation enjoys creative play in the outdoors and connecting children to the wonder and awe of nature. GNC has professional educators who gear each program to the appropriate age. Programs stress hands-on and direct-involvement learning, all while teaching children important skills such as utilizing measurement tools and developing critical thinking. Weekly programs Weekday nature series programs for young children with a parent or caregiver let you enjoy an hour of nature fun together. Except for extreme weather conditions, a portion of each class is spent outdoors. Tuition for a six-week session is $50 for GNC mem-

Special events at GNC The Honey Harvest Party will be Sunday, Sept. 18, at 2 p.m. It’s the season to reap the harvest of GNC’s organic garden and hives. The naturalists prepare a sampling of tast y treats from the garden and you learn about the fascinating social network of honeybees, beekeeping and how honey is harvested from hives. Honey is extracted by the beekeepers. There is a free tasting of fresh honey-from-the-hives, and the newly harvested honey is available for purchase. Preregister online to save on admission. Look online for details about upcoming fall special events: Fall Festival (Sunday, Oct. 16, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.); Howlin’ Halloween (Sunday, Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.); Turkey Scavenger Hunt (Sunday, Nov. 13, 1:30 p.m.) and Train Show (weekends only, Nov. 26-27, Dec. 3-4 and 10-11). Visit the story walk

GNC’s harvest party is an annual highlight.

bers, $90 for nonmembers. Preregistration and prepayment are required. Young Explorer’s Storytime is a unique experience as children, with a parent or caregiver, are immersed in a nature-themed story, with opportunities to engage with our animals and enjoy GNC’s fields and forests. For children ages 3-5, Mondays, 1-2 p.m. and runs through Sept. 26. The cost is $9 per child for members, $12 for nonmembers. Teaching Trails offers free weekend walks for all ages, with specially trained “trail ninja” volunteers providing information on trees, plants, wildlife and seasonal changes. This environmental education program is generously supported by Con Edison. Program runs most Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 25 at 11:30 a.m. and lasts for approximately 45 minutes.

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Nursery School & Summer Programs

Join GNC for the free eighth annual Story Walk, which runs Sundays from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. through Sept. 25. Take a self-guided walk with your child along the woodland trail to enjoy a favorite children’s storybook, “Screech Owl at Midnight Hollow” by C. Drew Lamm. Recommended for children ages 8 and under. The mission of the Greenburgh Nature Center is to ignite passion, curiosity and respect for our natural world. The nature center is located at 99 Dromore Road, off Central Park Avenue in Scarsdale. Parking is free and handicapped parking is available. The nature center’s grounds are open daily dawn to dusk through the year. The center’s indoor exhibits are open Monday through Thursday (closed Fridays and a few holidays) from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and on weekends from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. For more information, visit greenburghnaturecenter.org or call 723-3270.

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BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

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BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS NOTES 8th ArdsleyCares Day brings families together The eighth annual ArdsleyCares Day (ACD) will be held on Saturday, Oct. 22, for local families to give back to those in need. This day of giving — with multiple events across the county throughout the day — coincides with national Make a Difference Day, the nation’s largest day of community service. ArdsleyCares Day attracts close to 600 individuals each year to help less fortunate members of the community. Families come together throughout the day to participate in a number of different activities, including preparing meals for the homeless, collecting used equipment for Sporting Goods for Good, working with children at community centers across Westchester, cleaning up Ardsley and more. “Anytime we can bring charitable opportunities to our children and their families, we are enriching our community,” said Ardsley PTA’s Christine Ginsberg. “Time and again we have seen how gratifying it is for everyone to come together and work side by side to give back to our neighbors across Westchester.” ArdsleyCares Day began as a partnership between the Ardsley PTA and Ardsley schools to create hands-on

volunteering opportunities for Ardsley families. The daylong event continues to attract a broad swath of the community and benefits a broad range of organizations. There are activities available for even the youngest children, as well as teens and adults. Many of the volunteer activities are made possible through the donation of goods, including meal basics, materials and more by generous local businesses. “We are so grateful to the support of so many people, including the families, sponsors, the school district, the village and more for making it happen,” Ginsberg said. For up-to-date information on the schedule and to register for an event, Ardsley families are invited to visit www.ardsleycares.org or email ArdsleyCares@gmail.com. Follow on Facebook at ArdsleyCares.

Affordables for back to school fashion It’s time again to think about back to school! All the clothing you bought last fall needs to be replaced because the kids keep growing. That includes backpacks, sneakers, cleats and other necessary supplies. At Affordables on Dobbs Ferry, this yearly process is a

little more, well, affordable, by providing gently used clothing, shoes and sports equipment at a fraction of the cost of new, while providing the opportunity to recycle your outgrown or unused items as well. For over 30 years, Affordables has been serving the Rivertowns area and beyond with a large, loyal customer/ consignor base with new items coming in daily and helpful, knowledgeable customer service. Affordables is not a chain — they are your local neighborhood store, which allows them to individualize their services to meet your needs. Customers are treated like friends and family. It is sensible and fun to recycle, reuse and repurpose your children’s things and exciting to discover things they need at such great prices. Call 693-3610 or stop in at 10 Main St. to get started. Affordables can support you and your family through pregnancy to adolescence, from maternity clothing and newborn clothing up to size 16, and with everything in between. Whether your children play soccer, baseball or lacrosse, rollerblade, bicycle or ice skate, Affordables is ready to help. Most items are on automatic markdown so you can save even more. Visit affordablechild.com.

Iona Prep offers professional workshops Seeing the benefit that professional workshops have provided to parents and teachers at its own school, Iona Preparatory is now offering these programs to area Catholic elementary and middle schools. Schools can request programs on topics ranging from bullying to high school readiness preparation. Greg Quirolo, director of school counseling at Iona Prep in New Rochelle, said the school began the speakers’ bureau as a pilot last year and found it to be so successful that it has decided to expand it. He said Iona Prep believes sharing this valuable resource is in keeping with the school’s values. “Parents are looking for guidance in so many areas,” Quirolo said. “This program allows us to share in the mission of Catholic education with local Catholic elementary and middle schools.” Nancy Kessler, a longtime social worker at Iona Preparatory Upper School, is one of the professional speakers. Kessler has 30 years of experience working with parents and children as a counselor and presenter. She was recognized as an Unsung Hero by Westchester Magazine in its March 2016 issue for fostering student achievement through sensitivity, empaContinued on page 52A

School of the Holy Child

An all-girls, Catholic, independent school for grades 5 through 12

Open House: Saturday, October 1 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Learn how Holy Child students find joy in learning, attain academic excellence and are prepared to attend the nation’s most selective universities, including Georgetown University , Columbia University, Harvard, MIT, and more.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL NEWS NOTES Continued from page 51A

thy and guidance. Kessler said the goal of her presentation is to help parents support their children as they navigate the pre- and early teen years. She also shares tips for coping during what often becomes a stormy, stressful time for families. “I find that since life is so complex and busy, and parenting can feel that way at times, it is best to — as the expression goes — keep it simple,” she said. “I will break down some parent strategies we have all heard over the years into simple, easy-to-remember tips.” Other speakers the bureau offers are: • Terence Houlihan, a sought-after national and international educational consultant and speaker. Houlihan is a textbook author, Iona Prep school counselor and adjunct faculty member at Lehman College. • Quirolo, a former teacher and assistant principal with over 20 years of educational experience. Current workshops being offered include: • How to prepare for the High School Prep Experience • Bullying 101: An overview of bullying and victim behavior and strategies for middle school students to deal with the complexities of verbal, physical, emotional and cyber peer abuse. • Crucial Skills for Parenting Your

Middle School Adolescent: The balance between dialogue and discipline or communication and consequences • Tips for Parents of Teens: It’s All in Their Heads! • All students can, do and will succeed in Catholic Schools • The Developing Adolescent Brain: Implications for Middle School Educators. Last year, Iona Prep presented workshops to Saints John and Paul in Larchmont and St. Anthony’s in Yonkers. Fatima Gianni, principal of Saints John and Paul School in Larchmont, said the school was pleased with the presentations: “The Iona Prep Speakers’ Bureau has been an amazing resource for our school at Saints John and Paul. I encourage all schools to participate.” Reaccredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges & Schools in 2015, Iona Preparatory School k-12 sits on 37 acres of suburban green in New Rochelle, where it educates young men to be moral and ethical leaders. Iona Prep develops the whole person in the heritage of Blessed Edmund Rice and the American Catholic tradition to be lifelong learners, responsible to their commitment of service to others and confident in their self-worth, while being supported by a challenging and innovative college-preparatory curriculum in relationship with a dedicated and caring faculty and community. Visit ionaprep.org.

Sacred Heart, an ethicsbased prep school Founded in 1848, Sacred Heart Greenwich is an independent college preparatory day school for young women from kindergarten through grade 12, with a coed early childhood education program. As an ethics-based international school, Sacred Heart Greenwich brings the world to each student. An unparalleled academic program exceeds the needs of the 21st-century learner and is constructed to support family values, honor tradition, inspire confidence and value all faiths. Come visit and see for yourself why it is the only age 3 through grade 12 school of its kind in Fairfield and Westchester counties. The outstanding faculty provides students with many opportunities for academic achievement in a nurturing environment. An international exchange program enables students to pursue their interests in world languages and culture. STEAM programs in science, technology, engineering, the arts and math provide students with opportunities to develop skills that will have a substantial impact on their lives, as well as the lives of others. Facilities include new classrooms, a new athletic center, a science center with fully equipped labs for all grade levels; an outdoor observatory; library/media

center with Makerspace; theater; broadcast journalism studio; and individual art studios for lower, middle and upper schools. An outdoor amphitheater for classroom use provides an opportunity for students to excel in public speaking and drama. Beyond the classroom, students are engaged in academic excellence facilitated by the national Online School for Girls, Blackboard Learn, Google Apps for Education and an online initiative within the Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Sacred Heart offers a well-rounded approach to women’s sports and fitness that begins in the early grades focusing on physical fitness, wellness and ageappropriate collaborative activities before moving into competitive sports in middle and upper school. The school’s athletic teams compete in leagues in Westchester and Fairfield counties and throughout New England. Competitive team sports have been enhanced by a new 35,600-square-foot athletic center. Tour Days: Oct. 6, Nov. 3 and Dec. 1, 2016, and Jan. 12, 2017, from 9 a.m. to noon. Open Houses: upper school, Oct. 13, at 6 p.m.; kindergarten through grade 12, Nov. 5, at 9 a.m.; and the Barat Center for Early Childhood Education, Nov. 11, 2016, and Jan. 20, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. Contact Catherine Cullinane, director of admission at 203-532-3534 or admission@cshct.org. For more information, visit cshgreenwich.org.

FALL PROGRAM

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 Experienced Teachers • Serving Children 2 months–14 years • Field Trips • Stimulating Environment • Flexible Schedules • Beautiful Campus Setting

www.annandandychildcare.com

914-592-3027

2170 Saw Mill River Rd, Elmsford, NY

NEW AT THE JCC

Science

technology engineering

In partnership with TEKI

artS

math

K-1: STEM Engineers 2-3: Simple Machines/Robotics & Engineering 2-3: MINECRAFTEDU: Teki Towns 999 Wilmot Rd Scarsdale jccmw.org | 914.472.3300 2-3: Animation and Video Game Creation For information or to 4-6 Minecraft Worlds: Ancient Civilizations register jccmw.org 4-6: JCC Robotics Team The JCC welcomes families of all background, religions and sexual orientations

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 53A

ANNOUNCING THE CHANGE IN MEMBERSHIP YOU’VE BEEN PRAYING FOR. Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El is pleased to announce an innovative, new, non-dues based financial structure – known as a “pledge commitment model”. Members, former members, and prospective members in the Westchester Jewish community will be able to continue their membership or join the synagogue by making an annual financial pledge – a self-selected amount that will reflect the member’s chosen level of financial support for the synagogue. “We are all partners in building and sustaining a Scarsdale Synagogue community that is open to everyone, with the expectation that members will financially support our congregation in a way that reflects both their financial ability and their sense of investment in the future of our communal life.” – Rabbi Jeffrey Brown The High Holy Days will be here before you know it. Now is the time to join us and experience all Scarsdale Synagogue has to offer – from early childhood education and religious school, to adult education and, yes, the High Holy Days.

Hineinu. We Are Here.

2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583

www.sstte.org

For further information, please contact Roberta Aronovitch, Executive Director, at 914-725-5175 or send an email to roberta@sstte.org

PAGE 54A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

“See How We GROW” CHART 3’ 11” 3’ 10” 3’ 9” 3’ 8” 3’ 7”

NOTES:

3’ 6” 3’ 5” 3’ 4”

This growth chart compliments of ... WILLIAM RAVEIS

3’ 3”

REALTY GROUP

“Only The Best Become Legends” 3’ 2” 3’ 1”

579 Broadway • Hastings • 478-1500 68 Main Street • Irvington • 591-5600 37 Main Street • Tarrytown • 332-6300 1197 Pleasantville Road • Briarcliff Manor • 762-0070

legendsrealtygroup.net

PLACE THIS “SEE HOW WE GROW” CHART ON A FLAT WALL SURFACE 3 FEET OFF THE FLOOR.

BACK TO SCHOOL – FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016

THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE | PAGE 55A

Celebrating 25 Great Years

New York Goju Karate Black Belt Academy AGE & RANK SPECIFIC CLASSES

Home of Mission Bullyproof • Tiny Tigers • Kali Leadership • All Women • Teen/Adult • Parent/Child

On Hudson Fitness & Dance Studio

Jazz • Hip-Hop • Lyrical • Contemporary • Modern Tap • Pre-School • Pointe • Classical Ballet

Comprehensive Fitness Classes with the finest instructors in Westchester! BIRTHDAY PARTIES

ALL AGES! ALL LEVELS! ALL FUN!

558 Warburton Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson

914.478.0508 www.nygka.com www.onhudsondance.com

Photography by Lauren Faith and Beverly Picker

PAGE 56A | THE RIVERTOWNS ENTERPRISE

FRIDAY, AUGUST 26, 2016 – BACK TO SCHOOL

NUMBERS TO KNOW SCHOOLS NURSERY

ARDSLEY Ardsley Community Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-4932 DOBBS FERRY Alcott Montessori School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-4443, 472-4404 Chabad Pre-school . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6100 Christian Pre-school, Dobbs Ferry Lutheran Church . . . 693-0026 Community Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-9072 Greenburgh Hebrew Center Nursery School . . . . . . . . . 693-5121 Hudson River School of Music . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-9481 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON Five Corners Nursery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2334 Goddard School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-1390 Hastings Co-op Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3777 Rivertowns Pre-School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6181 Temple Beth Shalom Nursery School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3833 IRVINGTON Good Shepherd Early Childhood Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-4104

PAROCHIAL

John Cardinal O’Connor School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9330

PUBLIC

ARDSLEY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Superintendent of Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 Concord Road Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7510 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7564 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6300 DOBBS FERRY UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT Superintendents Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1506 Business Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1500 Springhurst Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1503 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7640 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-7645 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON PUBLIC SCHOOLS Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6200 Board of Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2900 Hillside Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6270 Farragut Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6230 Hastings High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-6250 IRVINGTON Superintendent’s Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8500 Dows Lane Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6012 Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9494 High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8500

EMERGENCIES

911

FOR ALL VILLAGES

POISON CONTROL CENTER

800-222-1222

AMBULANCE FIRE . POLICE

BUSES & TRAINS

(non-emergency numbers)

ARDSLEY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1700 DOBBS FERRY Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-5500 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-3000 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .693-5500 HASTINGS-ON-HUDSON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .478-2344 IRVINGTON Ambulance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-5151 Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-9867 Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-8080

HOSPITAL/EMERGENCY ROOMS

URGENT CARE CENTERS

Apple Med Urgent Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dobbs Ferry Pavilion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dwell Family Doctors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Phelps Memorial Hospital Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . St . John’s Riverside Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

231-7111 693-5187 372-7171 366-3590 964-4349

RECREATION Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-8012 Dobbs Ferry Recreation & Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-5505 Greenburgh Nature Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 723-3470 Hastings-on-Hudson Community Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-2380 Irvington Recreation Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7736

PRIVATE

Hackley School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 631-0128 Masters School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-1400

CHILDCARE

Ardsley Children’s Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6686 Ardsley Pals -5th & 6th Grades, Middle School . . . . . . 674-1222 Around The World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 479-0762 Aspire - Hastings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-5521 Days of Wonder Child Care Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-2980 Dobbs Ferry After-School Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-2406 Irvington Children’s Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .591-8182 Little Village Day Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0600

THE ARTS The Hudson River Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 963-4550 Irvington Town Hall Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6602 Newington Cropsey Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-7990 RiverArts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 476-2321

Peter J. Riolo real estate Member Westchester Real Estate, Inc.

Bee Line Bus Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 813-7777 Metro North Railroad From New York City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .212-532-4900 From all other areas . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-METRO-INFO

LIBRARIES Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6636 Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-6614 Greenburgh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 721-8200 Greenburgh (children’s) . . . . . . . . . . . 721-8227 Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3307 Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7840

CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

P .O . Box 119 P .O . Box 444 P .O . Box 405 P .O . Box 161

POST OFFICES Ardsley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0476 Ardsley-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-7299 Dobbs Ferry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 693-0451 Hastings-on-Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 478-3786 Irvington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 591-6487

Please Refrigerate Immediately! 30 Main Street

Hastings-on-Hudson

478-1400