Mayor Eric Adams Announces Food Education Roadmap For NYC Public School Students To Eat Healthy, Nutritious,Tasty Meals And To Understand The Food System - NYC Schools Kitchen Dashboard Has info On The Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Cafeteria Meals

New York City Mayor Eric Adams submitted the op-ed article below to local NYC community media including Roosevelt Islander Online. According to Mayor Eric Adams: 

Here in New York City, we are lucky to have an abundance of food from all over the world, yet many of our families face food insecurity, and for some of our children, the breakfast and lunch they eat at school are their only meals for the day. This makes it even more important that we serve our students healthy, nutritious meals that look good, taste good, and are culturally appropriate.

As a city, we have taken important steps in this regard: we follow strict nutritional guidelines; we are offering more plant-based choices, especially on Plant Powered Fridays and Meatless Mondays; we’ve expanded Halal Kitchens so that 87 public schools are now certified to serve Halal meals; this year, we’ve committed $50 million to create a welcoming environment in more than 80 school cafeterias; $5 million to train our school food workers; and now we are adding a vital food education component to the mix.

Living in New York City, many of our young people only see food as a finished product on the shelf of a supermarket, in a bodega, or in a package. We want to help them understand how the food system works—everything from how we grow our food to how it arrives in our grocery stores and on our plates. We want them to be able to make healthy food choices and to analyze how the food system affects the climate, our economy, our diverse communities, and our health. Comprehensive food education can also help students develop an appreciation of the culinary traditions of our city’s many different cultures.

In order to achieve this, we must weave food education throughout the regular school day. Students can learn how to prepare food in the school cafeteria, visit a grocery store for a math or science class, take a trip to a farmers’ market, and so much more. Over 1,000 New York City public schools have gardens where students can learn how to plant and grow their own food as well.

In some of our low-income neighborhoods, families do not have access to supermarkets or other nutritious food sources. And since processed foods (like junk food) is often cheaper and more readily accessible than unprocessed foods, 40% of our students, particularly our Black and Latino students, are overweight or obese. This puts them at greater risk for chronic diseases like diabetes and asthma. By eating better at school and exercising more they can improve their health and the health of the planet. I know this firsthand: I was able to preserve my eyesight and reverse my Type 2 diabetes by adopting a plant-based diet.

Food insecurity and inequity is an ongoing problem in our city that affects New Yorkers’ physical and mental health. By serving healthier food in our schools and through comprehensive food education, we can transform our young people’s health and wellbeing, the health of their communities, our city, and our planet.

I know the power of healthy eating firsthand: Switching to a plant-based diet reversed the effects of my type 2 diabetes.

Today we announce a roadmap for our @NYCSchools kids to eat better and build healthier schools.

Read more: https://t.co/KjrAotBBf6 pic.twitter.com/vzDjj8C9hn

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) June 6, 2023

Watch video below for more info on NYC Roadmap for kids to eat better and build healthier schools

 

The recently launched NYC Schools Kitchen Dashboard has info on Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 cafeteria.

 More info on Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 including student meals here.

3 Juveniles Arrested For Assault And Criminal Possession Of A Weapon Outside Of Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Last Evening - Here's What Happened

Last evening at about 6:15 a Tipster reported:

Arrest right now next to 10 River Road

and shared these photos

of the scene.

The Roosevelt Island Public Safety Blotter today described the incident as follows

05/18/23 – 1810 – 645 Main Street – Assault – NYPD, PSD Responded – Arrested

This morning, I asked Roosevelt Island Operating Corp (RIOC) President Shelton Haynes and Public Safety Chief Kevin Brown:

I was told there was an incident last night 5/18 near PS/IS 217 and 10 River Road involving an assault and weapons were involved. 

The Parents Network has a report that someone may have been shot. 

I heard a gun was involved in the incident. Is that true?...

... Does RIOC have any comment to the Roosevelt Island community on what if anything happened?

RIOC Vice President of Communications Akeem Jamal replied quickly:

We are actively getting details on the incident with the NYPD. I can confirm there was no gun involved in the incident. I will provide a further update as I receive more information.

I asked the NYPD about the incident. They had no info. 

PS/IS 217 Principal Mandana Beckman sent this message to the school parents. 

I asked the NYC Department of Education about the incident. A spokesperson replied:

The safety and well being of our students and staff is our number one priority. NYPD’s outstanding School Safety Agents responded to an incident that occurred outside of the school building after dismissal yesterday and no weapons were brandished during the incident.

There were no arrests made on school grounds.

Tonight, RIOC issued this statement on the incident: 

On Thursday, May 18th, 2023, at approximately 6:10 pm, the Roosevelt Island Public Safety Department (PSD) was notified of an assault in front of PS/IS 217. Responding PSD units included members of the NYPD School Safety Unit and 114th Precinct. Upon arrival, an immediate investigation was launched. It was determined that three juveniles were threatening members of PS/217 with a knife. Swift action was taken by the NYPD and PSD, which led to the arrest of three juveniles who were charged with misdemeanor offenses with assault and criminal possession of a weapon, among other charges. All three were issued a desk appearance ticket returnable to Family Court and were discharged to the custody of their parents. The victim sustained minor injuries.

The Roosevelt Island Operation Corporation (RIOC), Public Safety Department, New York Police Department, and New York City School District place the highest priority on the safety and protection of our students and school community. RIOC is in constant communication with the Roosevelt Island New York City Public School, PS/IS 217, and will continue to work with the public school to address these issues, as violence of any kind will not be tolerated here on Roosevelt Island.

According to a PS/IS 217 parent:

 A student was being disruptive in class yesterday and told the teacher to "suck his dick" repeatedly. The student was taken out of class but nothing was done. The student came back to school in the evening with 2 older friends, pulled a knife and assaulted the teacher's husband while he was picking her up from school.

Do You Like Donuts And Want To Help Roosevelt Island Youth? Here's A Twofer, Buy A Dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts And Help PS/IS 217 Middle School Students Raise Funds For End Of Year Activities And Celebrations

Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 parent Yitza Martinez reports: 

3 days left to place your orders. Roosevelt Island!! P.S/I.S 217 Middle School is doing it again, raising money to help fund those end of year activities. Parties, trips, outings, anything involving fun.

Do You Like Donuts And Would Like To Help Roosevelt Island Youth? Here's A Twofer,

Buy A Dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts And Help PS/IS 217 Middle School Students Raise Funds For End Of Year Activities And Celebrations Pre Order now through April 20th. Donuts will be handed out on the 28th outside the school. Please use the link to place your pre orders now. We will do our best to have extras but can't guarantee there will be enough for everyone. Don't Miss Out!

 Click here to order.

The Food Network shows us how Krispy Kreme donuts are made.

 

Yummy!!!!! 

More info on PS/IS 217 from NYC Department of Education and the school's website.

"Every Child Is An Artist, the Problem Is Staying An Artist When You Grow Up" - You're Invited To Opening Reception For Infinite Imagination Exhibition, Artwork Of Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Students Saturday April 1 At RIVAA Gallery

According to the Roosevelt Island RIVAA Gallery:

Every child is an artist, the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.

RIVAA Gallery is proud to present -Infinite Imagination- an exhibition in partnership with the students of PS/IS 127 on the island. 

Join us as we celebrate and encourage a rising generation of artists that remind us of the creative within ourselves, and the spirit of youth that remains throughout our whole life so long as we choose it! 

The opening reception will be on Saturday April 1, 2023 at the RIVAA Gallery, 527Main Street. 

The exhibition will be on view there until April 23, 2023. Were excited to see you there! Opening reception on Saturday, April 1st, from 2-4PM. The exhibition will run from March 31st - April 23rd 2023.

NYC Council Member Julie Menin Announces Participatory Budgeting Vote Week Starts March 25 For All District 5 Residents 11 Years And Older - $300 Thousand Upgrade Of Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Bathrooms On The Ballot

 Roosevelt Island's NYC Council Member Julie Menin reports:

Participatory Budgeting Vote Week will kick off on Saturday, March 25th, and run until Sunday, April 2nd. This year, residents age 11 and older of Council District 5 (Yorkville, Lenox Hill, Carnegie Hill, Roosevelt Island, Midtown East, Sutton Place, and El Barrio in East Harlem) will be able to vote online at https://vote.pbnyc.org/. 

Roosevelt Island residents can vote in person at the Roosevelt Island Library (504 Main Street).

Ms Menin adds:

In September 2022, my office was allocated one million dollars of capital funding to continue participatory budgeting for the residents of New York City Council District 5. Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of a public budget on capital projects. About 50 project proposals were submitted and vetted by City agencies to ensure compliance and feasibility. Ballot items must be a physical infrastructure project that benefits the public, has an estimated cost of at least $50,000 but not more than $550,000, and has a lifespan of at least 5 years.

 I am  pleased to announce a list of 10 items—each ranging in cost from $100,000 to $500,000—that will be put for a vote between March 25th through April 2nd. The projects with the most votes up until $1 million has been accounted for will be funded. 

Among the District 5 Participatory Budgeting projects on the ballot to be voted on is a $300 Thousand upgrading of local school PS/IS 217 bathrooms. 

Roosevelt Island projects not approved for Participatory Budget funding were:

• To modernize the Motorgate entrance by removing the escalator and adding a staircase.
• Housing for the Homeless we have on the Island!
• Replant Mature Trees slated for Removal on Roosevelt Island
• Tree guards for sidewalk trees on Roosevelt Island.
• Hire an artist to create a mural to beautify the exterior of the Roosevelt Island F train station

The full NYC Council District 5 Participatory Budgeting Ballot is below.

According to a press release from Ms Menin's office:

Winning projects will be announced in May and included in the City’s budget at adoption in June 2023.

In last year’s cycle, Council Member Julie Menin announced the results of her first annual participatory budgeting process within New York City Council District 5, which garnered a total of 1,838 votes and a tie for first place between the top two projects. Council Member Menin had previously announced that projects with the most votes up until $1 million has been accounted for will be funded. As a result of last year's success, Council Member Menin allocated additional capital funding in order to fully fund the top six voted projects totaling $1,380,000.

“Since I served on the Board of Citizens Union, I have been a longtime proponent of Participatory Budgeting and am thrilled with last year's success. Government must ensure that New Yorkers have civic engagement opportunities and have a voice in the budgetary process. As we approach voting week, filling out a ballot is a great way to be involved with the pulse of the community and determine the best use of city dollars,” said Council Member Julie Menin.

Confirmed voting locations are:

Council Member Julie Menin’s District Office (444 E 75th St, Unit 1B, New York, NY 10021)

Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center (415 E 93rd St, New York, NY 10128)

Webster Library (1465 York Ave, New York, NY 10075)

Roosevelt Island Library (504 Main St, New York, NY 10044)

67th Street Library (328 E 67th St, New York, NY 10065)

Lenox Hill Neighborhood House (331 E 70th St, New York, NY 10021)

Assemblymember Rebecca Seawright’s District Office (1485 York Ave, New York, NY 10075)

Asphalt Green - Upper East Side Campus (555 E 90th St, New York, NY 10128)

Check the Council Member’s website Participatory Budgeting 2023 - Julie Menin (nyc.gov) for scheduling and all voting sites. For more details or to request a paper ballot, please contact the Office of Council Member Julie Menin at 212-860-1950 or email District5@council.nyc.gov. 

Last year, the Roosevelt Island Public Library was among the District 5 libraries to share a portion of $250 thousand in Participatory Budget funding for technology upgrades. In 2016, Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 received $500,000 in Participatory Budget Funding for a Green Roof from former Council Member Ben Kallos which was completed in 2021.

New Yorkers, Participatory Budgeting is back for its twelfth cycle! This is your opportunity to voice your opinion on how city funding will be spent to directly improve your neighborhood. The process is underway. Learn more here: https://t.co/6Ajdlymo25 pic.twitter.com/x00TxVnOcS

— New York City Council (@NYCCouncil) September 16, 2022

Participatory budgeting does have critics.

The joke re: participatory budgeting is that these things are all going to be funded anyway, they just need to give you the illusion of having a voice. (Ask them how much it costs to pay the PB nonprofit to administer the election and you’ll see what a grift it is.) https://t.co/Uvtl0MpQmX

— Queens Crapper (@QueensCrapper) March 23, 2023

Roosevelt Island PS 217 Kindergarten Gifted & Talented Program Getting 25 More Seats - Mayor Adams Announces Applications For Expanded NYC Schools Gifted & Talented Program Will Open May 31 - NYC Kids Rise College Savings Program For Kindergartners Info Too

NYC Mayor Eric Adams announced last Tuesday that applications for expanded NYC Department Of Education (DOE) Gifted & Talented program seats will open Tuesday, May 31. According to this May 24 NYC Mayor's Office Press Release: 

New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Department of Education (DOE) Chancellor David C. Banks today announced that applications for the expanded kindergarten and third grade Gifted & Talented programs will open next Tuesday, May 31, 2022.

“By expanding our Gifted & Talented program to all New York City districts, we are giving every young person an opportunity to grow, to learn, to explore their talents and imagination, and we are making sure no child is left behind,” said Mayor Adams. “Working with families, teachers, and community leaders, we were able to make this expansion happen, and now students from every school district will be able to access a Gifted & Talented program.”

“Family and community engagement is critical to the success of our students and of this program,” said Chancellor Banks. “Thank you to our superintendents, community leaders, and families for working together with us to ensure there is access to the Gifted & Talented program in every community. We are also grateful to our pre-K teachers for undertaking this enormous effort to ensure that each and every student is screened for this opportunity....”

Roosevelt Island's PS 217

will be among the schools with an expanded kindergarten Gifted & Talented program. I asked the NYC Department of Education (DOE):

How many additional seats will be available for the Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Kindergarten Gifted and Talented Program

A DOE spokesperson replied:

25 seats.

CBS New York has more on the Gifted and Talented program 

 and application process.

I asked PS 217 Principal Mandana Beckman and the school's PTA for comment on the expanded Roosevelt Island Kindergarten Gifted & Talented program but have not received a reply yet. Will update with any new info.

More info on NYC Gifted & Talented program here.

Also:

Does your kindergartener go to @nycschools? Regardless of your family's income or immigration status, the @nyckidsrise #SaveForCollege Program is for you! Activate your child’s new NYC Scholarship Account so we start saving for their future, together: https://t.co/OZ6X5cOsl0 pic.twitter.com/PUk5IJVKIo

— NYC Youth & Comm. (@NYCYouth) May 26, 2022

We’re partnering with @NYCKidsRISE to put $100 into a college savings account for every @NYCSchools kindergartner this year — and every year going forward.

We’re investing in our future, especially for Black and Brown families who have long been denied opportunities to save. pic.twitter.com/4hGVDblsHm

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) May 13, 2022

Roosevelt Island and Upper East Side NYC Council Member Julie Menin adds:

As the creator & founding board chair of @NYCKidsRISE, I’m so excited to join @NYCMayor to celebrate that 97 percent of @NYCDOE students now have a college savings account! We started this program in 2016 and it is now citywide - truly a dream come true! pic.twitter.com/fzPNWsKf6s

— Julie Menin (@JulieMenin) May 13, 2022

Here's more. 

Do You Like Donuts And Want To Help Roosevelt Island Youth? Here's A Twofer, Buy A Dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts And Help PS/IS 217 Middle School Students Raise Funds For End Of Year Activities And Celebrations

 Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 parent Yitza Martinez reports:

The P.S/ I.S 217 Middle school is having a fundraiser to help raise money for their end of year activities and celebrations. Of course it can't be done without the help of our wonderful and caring community. With that said, Who likes donuts? Who likes to help the youth? Well here's a twofer... Buy a dozen Krispy Kreme Donuts and help the kids celebrate. How yummy does that sound?

Click here to order.

The Food Network shows us how Krispy Kreme donuts are made.
 

Yummy!!!!! 

More info on PS/IS 217 from NYC Department of Education and the school's website.

71% Of Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Students Received Full Covid 19 Vaccine, 76% Have First Dose, NYC Mayor Adams Says School Mask Mandate Ends March 7 If Numbers Show Low Level Of Risk

NEW: The NYC education department on Friday released school-level vaccination rates that show wide disparities across the boroughs. Check your school's rate here 👇 #EdChat #k12 #COVID19 #EduTwitter #NYCSchools https://t.co/brrVY0ZtxG

— Chalkbeat New York (@ChalkbeatNY) February 26, 2022

According to Chalkbeat and The City: 

Just over half of New York City public school students are fully vaccinated, according to data the education department released Friday. In total, 59% of the city’s public school students have received at least one vaccine dose and nearly 52% are considered fully vaccinated....

The NYC Department of Education (DOE) reports that the vaccination rate for Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 school

is 76.8% with a first dose and 71.2% fully vaccinated.

Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 https://t.co/HYqRWHatJC

— Roosevelt Islander (@Rooseveltisland) February 28, 2022

Pediatricians, doctors and health experts recommend the vaccine for children ages 5 and up.

Parents, if you haven't yet, get your kids vaccinated. Visit https://t.co/91bxjUk9gm and make an appointment for your child today. pic.twitter.com/24mTzLCeMK

— Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) February 28, 2022

The NYC DOE PS/IS 217 Covid 19 report card is here.

More than a million New York City school children will return to class tomorrow. If our numbers continue to show a low level of risk, we will remove the indoor mask mandate for public school students, effective Monday, March 7.

We will make a final decision on Friday, March 4.

— Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) February 27, 2022

According to NYC Health Department 10,969 (93.98%) Roosevelt Island residents have received at least one Covid 19 vaccine dose and 9,753 (83.56%) residents are full vaccinated.

After 6 Years Of Planning, Fundraising & Construction, Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Green Roof Opened Today With Ribbon Cutting And First Plantings By Students - This Is Freaking Beautiful Says Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer

This morning we celebrated the opening of PS/IS 217's green roof with a ceremonial planting. The space was funded with $1M from my office's participatory budgeting process, $250,000 from @galeabrewer & $500,000 from @Rebecca76AD. Thanks @RepMaloney for joining us! pic.twitter.com/ZgB8SWstVS

— Ben Kallos, NYC Council Member (@BenKallos) November 29, 2021

After more than 6 years of planning, fundraising and construction, Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 Green Roof opened today with a ribbon cutting and first plantings by students.

 NYC Council Member Ben Kallos hosted the PS/IS 217 Green Roof Ribbon Cutting Ceremony saying:

What a wonderful day to be  here on the new PS/IS 217 Roosevelt Island Green Roof which is officially open for business... 

PS/IS 217 Principal Mandana Beckman remarked:

As principal, it is my great pleasure to welcome all of you to the opening of the Roosevelt Island School-- Green Roof. And what a roof it is! The purpose and beauty of its design, landscaping, materials and setting are so obvious that this space in which we find ourselves, seems to speak for itself.... 

... We have waited so long to be here today. The green roof is a wonderful addition to our facility. As is usually the case, wonderful things take a lot of work and in this case that work was done by a lot of people. It is appropriate at this ceremony to assure those who worked so hard that we will make the most of their creation and it is appropriate that we thank them: 

For the initial concept, we thank Ms. Fokine, who was inspired by her trip to Japan.  

We thank Christina Delfico who took that dream to its first steps of realization.  

For funding Council Member Kallos, Assembly Member Seawright, Manhattan Borough President Brewer, Congresswoman Maloney and NY State Senator Serrano who backed this project.
For our PTA and RI community constituents who got out the vote and championed our vision - RIOC, RIRA, Roosevelt Island Garden Club, the Girl Scouts, and Roosevelt Island Parent Network. 

For the designers Mary Rice, Abel, Bainnson & Butz who heard what we wanted and realized our vision in their plans. 

For our construction team led by Muhammed Siqb Arshed  

And for our Custodial EngineerJeff Atkins and the custodial staff who has tended this space in all its stages of completion. 

And we thank forward all those who will tend this incredible space and make it a vibrant learning, a multi-enriching and a spiritually healing place.

 Roosevelt Island Girl Scout Troop 3001 has advocated for the Green Roof since 2015. Troop Leader Yitza Martinez and two Girl Scouts spoke at today's event.

Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer said of the new PS/IS 217 Green Roof:

This is freaking beautiful...

The new educational green roof at PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island will give the next generation of leaders the tools to excel in STEM starts in the classroom.

I am proud of NYC for being at the cutting edge of ensuring that our students are at the forefront of learning. pic.twitter.com/92mJn7hPrR

— Carolyn B. Maloney (@RepMaloney) November 29, 2021

As a member of the Assembly Education Committee, proud public school parent and former PTA activist, I was pleased to cut the ribbon on PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island Green Roof and STEM learning Hub. We funded $500k toward successful completion. 🌻🪴 pic.twitter.com/r1Au9ONon8

— Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright (@SeawrightForNY) November 29, 2021

The current Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA thanked the prior PTA's for all their work getting the Green Roof built.


NYC Schools District 2 Superintendent Kelly McGuire thanked everybody involved in the Green Roof project.
 

Roosevelt Island Operating Corp President Shelton Haynes said the PS/IS 217 Green Roof:

... is a testament of when community and government work together great things happen, so congratulations. We're very excited about this space...

Today we unveiled a new green roof at PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island that provides flexible outdoor classroom space for educational gardening programs, theater and performing arts. Thanking @galeabrewer @BenKallos @Rebecca76AD & @RepMaloney for their support. pic.twitter.com/fdunPH63zv

— New York City School Construction Authority (@NYC_SCA) November 29, 2021

And this all began in 2015 with the Roosevelt Island Girl Scouts campaigning for Participatory Budget funding from Council Member Kallos.

According to this press release from NYC Council Member Ben Kallos:

Students at PS/IS 217 have a new educational green space on their roof, thanks to funding from Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, Borough President Gale Brewer, Council Member Ben Kallos, and Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright. Today they celebrated completion of the project, including a ceremonial planting.

$1 million in funding for this project comes from Council Member Ben Kallos, which was allocated from participatory budgeting that the school won in 2015 and 2016 thanks to the advocacy of the Roosevelt Island Community. Borough President Brewer funded $250,000 and Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright contributed $500,000 to the project.

To win funding through participatory budgeting, the whole Roosevelt Island community worked together to turn out a winning number of votes. Community members that advocated for the project include the PS/IS 217 PTA, Girl Scout Troops 3001 and 3244, Roosevelt Island Garden Club, Roosevelt Island Parents’ Network, Sharon Bermon from the NYPL Roosevelt Island Branch, and community activist Christina Delfico.  

“STEM education is a vital part of shaping our future generation of leaders,” said Council Member Ben Kallos. “I am excited to celebrate the completion of PS/IS 217’s green roof, which will provide students with the opportunity to play and learn in new ways. I look forward to seeing all that the school is able to accomplish with this space.”

“I am thrilled to be here at the opening of the new educational green roof at PS/IS 217,” said Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. “Giving the next generation of leaders the tools to excel in STEM starts in the classroom, and I am proud that our City schools are at the cutting edge of ensuring just that. I thank Councilmember Kallos, Borough President Brewer, and Assemblywoman Seawright for our ongoing partnership in ensuring New York City’s students are at the forefront of learning.”

“I’m excited to be able to celebrate the completion of the green roof at PS/IS 217, a project that will provide educational space to learn about the importance of protecting our environment,” said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. “I know that this space will benefit students for years to come by acting as a learning hub for 21st century skills and advancing scientific and environmental knowledge, in addition to supporting our city’s climate resiliency efforts by keeping the roof cooler, acting as an insulator, saving heating and cooling costs, helping to protect the school from environmental wear and tear, as well as reduce noise.”

“As a member of the Assembly Education Committee, proud public school parent and former PTA activist, I was please to award PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island with $500,000 for the creation of a Green Roof and construction of a STEM learning Hub. Our students deserve a safe place to learn and play. I commend Principal Mandana Beckman, school leadership, and PTA for seeing this through for the benefit of students and educations at PS/IS 217,” said Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright.  

“This green roof provides flexible outdoor classroom space for educational gardening, theater and performing arts, and general student education, and recreation,” SCA President and CEO Nina Kubota said. “It’s a great example of the SCA’s steadfast commitment to provide enhanced educational services and better facilities for the City’s kids and the teachers and staff who serve them.”
“So many people had a small role in making a big impact,” says local sustainability advocate Christina Delfico. “This roof top project proves that community, schools, and government can create a sea of wide open green space to excite students in every subject of learning.”...

Learn more about Green Roofs from this 2015 visit to the Randall's Island NYC Parks Department 5 Boro Green Roof Garden.

Roosevelt Island And Upper East Side NYC District 2 School Parents Urge DOE To Expand French/English Dual Language Pre K Program To K-5 Grades, Sign Up For Information Session - Local NYC Council Member Kallos And Council Member-Elect Menin Support Program Expansion

Nadia Levy and Stéphane Lautner are parents and organizers of an initiative to bring free dual language French-English classes for children in NYC District 2 Community Schools which include PS/IS 217 on Roosevelt Island. 

According to Ms Levy and Mr Lautner:

The Upper East Side Francophone Dual Language Initiative is an organization that successfully created two Pre-K classes on the Upper East Side, and is currently working hard for the implementation of a Francophone dual language program in School District 2 public schools serving the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island. 

The organization is planning a discussion session on Roosevelt Island for parents who may be interested in more information in the program. Space may be limited; so please RSVP at this link. Further information — including the date, time and location of the meeting — will be forwarded after registration.

Roosevelt Island resident Bafode Drame adds:

The Dual Language, French-English Initiative that created a free Pre-K public school program in District 2, is trying to extend the program to grades K-5, and also reaching out to the RI community to raise awareness for the free public school program in District 2 that includes Roosevelt Island.

Tap Into Sutton Place/Lenox Hill reported in October 2020:

Council Member Ben Kallos led a ribbon cutting to announce the availability of 40 Pre-K Seats for a French dual language program that will serve members of the Francophone community on the East Side.

According to Council Member Kallos, the New York City Department of Education will operate the classes using a side-by-side instructional model where it will have one Early Childhood-certified teacher who is fluent in French and who has or will work towards a bilingual extension, alongside a second Early Childhood-certified teacher.

Classes started at the Pre-K Center at 355 East 76^th Street on September 21....

But in January 2021 Tap Into Sutton Place/Lenox Hill added:

Parents on the Upper East Side were thrilled when, after their hard work and support from elected officials, the Department of Education opened a pre-K French dual language program last October. The parents, however, had also worked with the DOE to identify a public school on the Upper East Side that would host a K-5 French dual language program so that the pre-K students could continue their second language studies. But on Monday afternoon, the DOE informed the parents that it would not be opening a K-5 program for the new school year in September....

Ms Levy reported last week:

The DOE had promised to help that happen, but did not keep their word last year.  We are trying to change that this year. We are hopeful with the new mayor, things may change. 

Roosevelt Island and Upper East Side NYC Council Member Ben Kallos supports expansion of the dual French/English language program to K-5 grades in District 2. According to Mr Kallos:

Roosevelt Island is an incredibly diverse community, including families from Francophone countries all over the world. The Upper East Side's French Dual Language program has been a success, with some Roosevelt Islanders already participating. 

 

Expanding this program would open more seats to interested families, and would be a great opportunity for the Island's international community. Thank you to the parents who have tirelessly advocated for these programs, not only for their own children, but for the community as a whole.

Roosevelt Island and the Upper East Side NYC Council Member-elect Julie Menin adds:

The Department of Education must expand the French dual language program within Community School District 2, which enables students to write, read and speak in both English and their home language. Assisting our bilingual families supports the multiculturalism that is a central component of New York City’s identity. It is essential that the Department of Education reconsider this decision.

I asked the NYC Department of Education for comment earlier today and will update with any response. 

Register here to attend an Information Session on the Dual French/English Dual Language Initiative for District 2.

Roosevelt Island Annual Christmas Tree Sale, Order Online By November 24, Pick Up At The Helix, Delivery Available Too - 25% Of Every Purchase Will Support PS/IS 217 PTA

According to the Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 school PTA:

PS/IS 217's annual Christmas tree fundraiser is back this year!

25% of all Christmas Tree sales will be donated to the PTA of PS/IS 217, so this is a great way to help support our school while enjoying some holiday cheer!

We have a new local tree grower that we are partnering with this year: Greg's Trees -- We look forward to developing this partnership over the next few years. 

Pickup will be at the Helix (close to Foodtown Supermarket) on a date of your choosing: 

Saturday November 27th, 

Friday December 3rd, 

Saturday December 11th. 

We will follow up with each order to confirm your pickup date. There will be an assortment of trees to choose from according to the size of tree that you purchased. 

Prices below are inclusive of the NYC sales tax of 8.875%.

We are arranging middle-school students to help offer delivery of these trees -- Tips greatly appreciated.

Did you know that it takes 10 years to grow a five foot tree??? 

Click here to order your Roosevelt Island Christmas Tree and help support the PS/IS 217 PTA.

UPDATE 11/28 - A reader asked today:

Usually I go to your blog to see when the tree sales start. I didn’t see a post about it. It’s always the weekend after Thanksgiving under the motor gate. I just went there and didn’t see the team selling trees.

Just curious if you know anything. Thanks a lot.

I'll ask the PTA if Christmas Trees can still be ordered for next pick up date.

Residents were picking up Christmas Trees 

yesterday at the Motorgate Helix next to Farmers Market. 

UPDATE 8:50 PM - The Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA reply:

Yes! We extended the order deadline and reopened the link. It should still work!  He’s back again this coming Friday, 2:30-7:30.

UPDATE 12/9 - According to the PS/IS 217 PTA:

This is your last chance to grab your Christmas Tree in support of PS/IS 217. Pre-order now-- our local tree farmer, "Santa" Greg, will be back one last time this Saturday, Dec 11, 12:00 - 4:00PM. He brings a few extra so you can pick your favorite (pre-order guarantees you a tree!)! Remember that 25% of every purchase will return to support the PS/IS 217 PTA and our students. Buy your tree now.

What Is The Future Of NYC Schools Gifted & Talented Program? Roosevelt Island Invited To District 2 NYC Brilliant Community Meeting November 17 - 200 Students Currently In PS/IS 217 G&T Program

According to the NYC Department of Education:

As announced by the Mayor, the Department of Education will eliminate the Gifted & Talented (G&T) test and phase out the current G&T model. In its place, we will launch “Brilliant NYC,” a blueprint for accelerated learning for all elementary students in New York City.

• Starting with Kindergarten in September 2022, accelerated learning will be offered to 65,000 kindergarteners compared to 2,500 kindergarteners that the current G&T model serves. 
• Students currently in G&T will remain in their programming so there is no disruption to their learning. Brilliant NYC will be phased in for grades one through three. 

For questions about Brilliant NYC, email brilliantnyc@schools.nyc.gov.

Every single one of our @NYCSchools students is gifted. Every single one is talented. #BrilliantNYC will end the outdated days of one-size-fits-all testing and open the doors for all of our children. pic.twitter.com/XHECR6pYus

— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) October 16, 2021

Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217 is located NYC School District 2. A PS/IS 217 staffer reports:

District 2 Superintendent Mr. McGuire invites the families to give their feedback regarding the future of the G&T program during the November 17th 6pm virtual "Brilliant NYC Community" Meeting. Register for this zoom meeting https://tinyurl.com/BrilliantNYCD2

 I asked the PS/IS 217 staffer:

Thanks for the info about the District 2 G&T update.

Do you have any more info on how this impacts Roosevelt Island's PS/IS 217?

How many students are currently in the 217 G&T program in the various grades?

Is there any other info about the school that you think of interest to the Roosevelt Island community?

 who replied:

It's one class per grade level, we have around 200 G&T students. No decisions have been made, this is a community meeting held by the Superintendent to get the ideas from the stakeholders.

There were 620 students enrolled last year, 2020-21, in PS/IS 217. Info not available on current total enrollment this year.

NYC Department of Education has more on Brilliant NYC program.

CBS New York reports on NYC's plan to replace Gifted & Talented program with Brilliant NYC.

According to the NY Times, Mayor-Elect Eric Adams:

... Asked directly whether he would eliminate the gifted program, Mr. Adams replied, “no I would not, I would expand the opportunities for accelerated learning.”...

Register here for the District 2 Brilliant NYC community meeting to learn more. UPDATE 9 PM:

G&T was an effective way of raising test scores at 217 such that it regained popularity among island families. No longer necessary for that purpose.

— Minnehanonck (@minnehanonck) November 15, 2021

Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA Welcomes Back Students And Families To The School And Introduces The Administration, Teachers And Staff In Amusing Video

The Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 PTA welcomes back students and families to the school and introduces the administration, teachers and staff in this amusing video.

Back To School Is On the Horizon So Plan Ahead, August 9 Is Last Day For Your Child To Be Fully Vaccinated With Pfizer Vaccine Before September 13 School Start Date Says NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio, Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter & NYC Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi

Vaccines are our passport out of this pandemic, and every person vaccinated is another person protected from COVID-19. As a parent, I encourage all families preparing to return to @NYCSchools this fall to get your student age 12+ vaxxed by August 9. More: https://t.co/2OCzNOcSF5 pic.twitter.com/1pOfT45smb

— Chancellor Meisha Porter (@DOEChancellor) August 3, 2021

Back-to-School is on the Horizon, so Plan Ahead: Get Vaccinated by August 9

By Meisha Porter and Dr. Dave A. Chokshi

In early July, we were elated to welcome students to classrooms for Summer Rising, the City’s free summer academic and enrichment program. Children were clearly excited to be back with their teachers and friends, and those feelings have only grown over the past few weeks. In an elementary school in East Harlem, youngsters proudly displayed the solar-powered ovens they’d built to cook s’mores. In a school in Chinatown, students gasped with joy over the “magical” science experiments performed by Jason Latimer of YouTube’s Impossible Science channel. And in a school in the Bronx, students dove into their lessons and demonstrated an outdoor mindfulness activity.

Experiences like these are reflected in the smiles of hundreds of thousands of children who are in school to learn, play, connect, and grow this summer. Both children and their parents are grateful to have this bridge to the next school year.

We see the first day of school—Monday, September 13—as a homecoming. In fact, it comes shortly after NYC Homecoming Week, a five-borough celebration of the city’s resilience throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

As we think ahead to the fall, the health and safety of students and school communities are at the forefront of our planning. We are asking New Yorkers to help with a crucial part of this work: get vaccinated. If your child is between 12 and 17 years old, August 9 is the last day for your child to get the Pfizer vaccine in order to be fully vaccinated in time for school.

This date is important to remember because the vaccine for adolescents involves a two-dose regimen, and it takes two weeks from the second shot for someone to be considered fully vaccinated. So, think of this as your doctor’s orders: Schedule your vaccine today if you have not already.

Safely and fully reopening schools this fall is a milestone for our city, and we are eager to see students back in their school communities. We are doing everything in our power to create a safe learning environment—from disinfecting every school, to re-configuring classrooms and improving ventilation, to stocking up on face masks and hand sanitizer.

And last week, Mayor de Blasio announced that school staff must show a one-time proof of vaccination or weekly COVID-19 tests. The new requirement recognizes that the single most important way we can help our children go back to learning, and save lives, is with vaccination.

As parents ourselves, we know the decision to vaccinate is important, and we would do anything to protect our children. The vaccine is safe and very effective. Over 250,000 young New Yorkers have now gotten the shot.

At school, vaccination allows children to be in the classroom, participate in afterschool activities and sports, and gather with friends—safely. It also provides a more stable learning environment, (for example, students who are considered fully vaccinated are not required to quarantine).  

Getting the shot has never been easier in New York City. Access to vaccination is widely available in all five boroughs, and the City is offering a new $100 incentive for anyone (including children) who gets their first dose at a City-run site. Nearly all New Yorkers live within half a mile of a public vaccination site, and everyone is eligible to request and receive at-home vaccination. Pediatricians and other health care providers can also help answer questions, and many are able to give the COVID-19 vaccine at a back-to-school check-up, along with other routine immunizations. If you need a provider, call 1-844-NYC-4NYC and you will be transferred.

We’re so excited to welcome all New York City students back into classrooms in September. Because of vaccination, our buildings will soon be fully open and our young people will be learning. We deeply appreciate the partnership of the city’s families and the commitment to keeping our school communities safe and healthy.

Meisha Porter is Chancellor of the NYC Department of Education

Dave A. Chokshi, MD, MSc, is Commissioner of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

Parents: There is nothing more protective than vaccination. Your 12- to 17-year-olds should get their first dose of the Pfizer #COVID19 vaccine by August 9 so that they are fully vaccinated when school starts: https://t.co/nTpNnVPgBP pic.twitter.com/NEj3a5udik

— Commissioner Dave A. Chokshi, MD (@NYCHealthCommr) August 3, 2021

Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 8th Graders Celebrate Graduation At Awesome Fun Filled Senior Class Trip To Six Flags Amusement Park And Family Brunch At The Sanctuary Event Space With Generous Support From Roosevelt Island Community

Last April, Roosevelt Island parents initiated a fundraising campaign seeking community support to send our local PS/IS 217 8th grade class on a Senior Class trip to Six Flags Amusement Park in celebration of their upcoming graduation.

As previously reported, according to one parent:

It’s a small class of 28 kids. Most of these kids have been through school together since Pre-K up. They’re this cute little 217 Family. Like many of us were.  

These kids have had it rough, they’ve missed out on their last year of school together. Many of the memories they will have will be of tiny thumbnails of each other on a computer screen. 

As of right now, we the parents of the 8th grade in 217 are trying to help these kids have a safe and memorable last school trip together. There are families who are struggling to pay Senior fees, picture day and a class ring. And we collectively are trying to make this trip available to all of the kids, without an extra bill to the households. We are looking to raise funds to bring the entire 8th grade class to Six Flags for a day of fun.... 

And:

... Our children are graduating from 8th Grade and due to Covid, their school is unable to provide the traditional senior activities, trips or celebrations. These kids have been struggling with remote and blended classes for half of their 7th grade and their entire 8th grade.  That means half of the middle school experience was lost. They have essentially become teenagers alone at home. They have persevered and deserve a celebration. The students would like to go on the annual senior trip as an entire class of 28 kid...

The fundraising campaign was successful, raising just over their goal of $4000.

On June 19, the Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 8th Grade Graduates

 enjoyed a fun filled day

at Six Flags Amusement Park.

Roosevelt Island Parent Yitza Martinez shares these photos (those above too) and reports:

Congratulations to the 2021 P.S/I.S 217 8th grade graduates.  

I would like to say that with the support of a community anything is possible, this has been tested and proven true. 

Back in April some of the parents worked together to help the 8th graders get the finale they deserved. They started and shared a Gofundme fundraiser with the hopes of reaching a goal. 

Although having some obstacles in the way, Mission accomplished!!! This Roosevelt Island community is awesome!!! 

Many contributed to the efforts; new island residents as well as old timers, friends and families, Island wide organizations and even some anonymous pulled together and made this trip happen. Thank you!  

Also, a huge THANK YOU to The Sanctuary RI for not only contributing to the fundraiser but also opening their doors for the class to have an after graduation brunch. 

Their generosity is not taken for granted and we truly appreciate it.   

The fundraiser helped cover the cost for a private charter bus, entrance to Six Flags Great Adventure and food vouchers for the students and the chaperones on June 19th.  

These kids had an awesome day full laughter, fun, sun

and best of all memories with their friends and classmates. 

Thank you friends, Thank you families and Thank you Roosevelt Island!!! Without your caring this would not have been possible.  

Once again, Congratulations to the class of 2021, YOU DID IT! Best of luck in high school.

It's Been A Tough Year For Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 2021 Graduating Class of 28 Students Due To Covid 19 Pandemic - Help Them Celebrate Graduation With Senior Class Trip To Six Flags Amusement Park By Contributing To Go Fund Me Campaign

A Roosevelt Island PS/IS 217 parent is asking for community help to send the graduating 8th grade class of 28 kids on a Senior Class trip to Six Flags Amusement Park in celebration of their upcoming graduation.

According to the parent:

It’s a small class of 28 kids. Most of these kids have been through school together since Pre-K up. They’re this cute little 217 Family. Like many of us were.

These kids have had it rough, they’ve missed out on their last year of school together. Many of the memories they will have will be of tiny thumbnails of each other on a computer screen. 

As of right now, we the parents of the 8th grade in 217 are trying to help these kids have a safe and memorable last school trip together. There are families who are struggling to pay Senior fees, picture day and a class ring. And we collectively are trying to make this trip available to all of the kids, without an extra bill to the households. We are looking to raise funds to bring the entire 8th grade class to Six Flags for a day of fun. 

If you can help, here's the Go Fund Me Page 

We are a group of parents trying to give our children the best graduation send-off possible. 

Our children are graduating from 8th Grade and due to Covid, their school is unable to provide the traditional senior activities, trips or celebrations. These kids have been struggling with remote and blended classes for half of their 7th grade and their entire 8th grade. 

That means half of the middle school experience was lost. They have essentially become teenagers alone at home. They have persevered and deserve a celebration. The students would like to go on the annual senior trip as an entire class of 28 kids. 

Some parents are unable to afford a contribution in these tough times and accomplishing this goal will take even more funds than usual because of Covid 19 rules and regulations. For instance, to get there they would need a bus with enough space to socially distance and at over $1,000. It is very expensive to rent for the day. 

Some kids are already struggling with paying the school the requested senior dues. This fundraiser is to be used to help pay the expenses, and only the expenses, for the transportation and entrance fees for the entire class to get the best ending to their middle school experience as possible: a fun day at Six Flags doing what kids should be doing, celebrating at an amusement park. They are hoping that we can all help make that happen.

Click here if you wish to help.

NYC Mayor Bill deBlasio and Schools Chancellor Meisha Porter Announce Expansion Of 3-K For All With 40 Thousand Early Childhood Education Seats Coming Citywide In September - Council Member Ben Kallos Says He Will Work Hard To Have 3 K Available On Roosevelt Island

Prepare Your Young Learner with 3-K and Pre-K for All

By Meisha Porter, New York City Schools Chancellor

As educators, our job is to prepare our students for a successful, productive life, empowered with the skills they need to chase their dreams—and early childhood programs are where it all begins. That’s why Mayor de Blasio and I are so excited to announce the expansion of 3-K for All to every school district by September, providing 40,000 three-year-olds with free, full-day, high-quality, early childhood education citywide.

These programs are a child’s first step to success throughout the rest of their education and beyond, and I encourage families to explore the 3-K and Pre-K for All options available in their communities and apply. Applications for the 2021–22 school year are open!

As parents and guardians, you know just how quickly our youngest children learn—from birth to age five is a critical period of growth and 90 percent of brain development happens during this time. Our 3-K and Pre-K for All classrooms are full of joy and discovery, and they offer the perfect environment for children to learn to problem-solve, ask questions, and explore the world around them as they grow. In addition, our programs are free or low cost, saving families an average of $10,000 a year on childcare costs.

I remember when the South Bronx’s District 7 was one of the first few districts to offer 3-K for All in 2018 and what it meant for so many families in need to have access to free, full-day, high-quality early childhood education for their children.

I want every family to have that kind of support, and we’ve made so much progress expanding early childhood education in every borough over the last three years. Today, all NYC school districts offer pre-K programs, and there is a free, full-day pre-K seat for every four-year-old child citywide. That means any New York City family with a child born in 2017 can apply to pre-K for the upcoming school year by the new April 19 deadline.

In addition, we are excited to now offer 3-K programs in every school district citywide. All New York City families with children born in 2018 can apply to 3-K for the upcoming school year by the May 28 deadline. There is a 3-K seat for every three-year-old in school districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 16, 19, 23, 27, 31, and 32; and we will offer 3-K seats to as many families as possible in the new districts. Families across the city can still apply to programs in any district, and your child has priority to attend 3-K for All programs in your home district. You can find out your school district by calling 311 or visiting schools.nyc.gov/Find-a-School. Programs in the new districts will be added to the application throughout April and May.

In all school districts, in addition to the free 3-K and Pre-K programs in their communities, families who qualify based on their income and needs also have the opportunity to apply to free or low-cost extended school day and year programs, including Head Start.

Families can apply to 3-K or Pre-K for All for the 2021–22 school year online at MySchools.nyc or over the phone at 718-935-2009. The online application is available in ten languages (English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Arabic, Korean, Haitian Creole, Bengali, Urdu, and French), and families can submit an application over the phone in over 200 languages. Visit nyc.gov/3k and nyc.gov/prek for more information.

If you are seeking care for your child right now, we encourage you to reach out so we can connect you with a program in your community. Families seeking an open 3-K or pre-K seat for this current school year can call 718-935-2009 or email ES_Enrollment@schools.nyc.gov to learn more.

Children who attend 3-K and Pre-K for All programs get a strong start in school and life, and as incoming Schools Chancellor these are the kinds of opportunities I want to build on and create for our students so they can dare to dream and learn. No matter the circumstances, we are here to provide children across New York City with a safe, nurturing learning community each and every day.

A spokesperson for Roosevelt Island NYC Council Member Ben Kallos adds:

Council Member Kallos will work hard to have 3K on Roosevelt Island available to parents the same way he worked and succeeded in getting Pre-K on the island.