Staten Island Parent - August 2022

August 2022

siparent.com

Fun!

August events All across the Island

Your Teen is

Driving Now What?

Get Organized!

For Back-to-School

10 Best

Afterschool Activities + 2022-2023 School Calendar

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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August 2022

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pg. 16

pg. 34

FEATURES 22 | Local Spotlight It's a poetic victory for one Staten Island teen and S.I. Tech student named National Youth Poet Laureate finalist 24 | 10 Best After-School Programs and Activities A guide as you head back to school 34 | Lauren Brody Smith Founder of the Fifth Trimester on why family care matters

Stories & columns 6 | Editor’s Letter 8 | Community and School News 12 | Mom Hacks Back-to-school organization tips that help get the family back on a regimented schedule 28 | Raising Teenagers Tips for making sure your new drivers are being safe on the road 30 | Mom Stories Our editor reflects on her daughter starting middle school — and how neither are ready for it

pg. 36

Education 16 | Education Advanced planning for high school admissions and what parents and students need to be doing to prepare now.

20 | Education Directory 32 | 2022-2023 Public School Calendar

Family fun 36 | Calendar The best family-friendly events this month

38| Birthday Club Celebrating August birthdays Cover via Getty Images

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pg. 30

Bridging the Gap to Help Students Excel

Our Certified tutors are here to help students and parents meet the challenges of a new school year with in person and online tutoring, test prep, Lego robotics and homework help programs for all ages and subjects.

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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Editor’s Note

Sticking with Summer

How is it already August? July really flew by!

Some might say summer is half over, but I say we still have half the summer left. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still looking forward to back-to-school, when I can finally drink my morning coffee in peace. But I’m not exactly pumped for early alarms, hectic mornings getting everyone out the door on time and nightly arguments over finishing homework assignments. The lazy days of summer are where I long to be, at least for another month.

Before I continue, I’d like to express our deepest condolences to the families of Jesie Gil, Fernanda Gil and Ashley Rodriguez, three Staten Island teenagers whose lives were taken way too soon after a tragic car accident on Hylan Boulevard last month. Our hearts are with them.

As parents, it is extremely scary letting our kids behind the wheel for the first time.

The roads are dangerous enough for even the most seasoned drivers. Parents should never outlive their children, so we’re sharing some important, possibly lifesaving, information for those of you with teenage drivers on page 28.

While you start preparing for the first day of school, you might also want to think about what to do after school. We are sharing some of our favorite after school activities in Staten Island on page 24 to help you decide what kind of enrichment programs you want your child to join this year.

Speaking of the first day of school, as it draws nearer I am reminded that my children

NewYorkFamily.com Publisher: Clifford Luster Deputy Editor: Jeannine Cintron Reporter: Barbara Russo Community Content Creator: Shara Levine Executive Director: Donna Duarte-Ladd Associate Publisher: Erin Brof Advertising Director: Stacie Goldberg Senior Adviser: Susan Weiss Partnership Managers: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, Annene Guertin, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli Marketing & Strategy Director: Rosalia Bobé Sales & Marketing Coordinator: Mykael Fields

are both beginning new chapters this fall starting new schools. We all go through it eventually, the bittersweet emotions of a child reaching another milestone. If you can relate, flip to page 30 to read my essay on preparing for my daughter – and myself – for middle school.

As always, we’re bringing you tons of ideas for family-friendly activities in and around Staten Island. Head to page 36 to see August’s calendar for event highlights all month long. We add new things to do all the time, so sign up for our weekly newsletter on our homepage or at siparent.com/signup and never miss a thing!

I really hope you’re enjoying your summer. Here’s to another month of lazy days and summertime fun!

Happy August!

Jeannine Cintron

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Contact Information

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get in touch Comments? Questions? Suggestions? Email Jeannine at jcintron@siparent.com Get news, tips and humor all month long: siparent.com/signup

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©2022 Queens Family Media, LLC

Fall Events & Programs WED.-SUN. through Oct. 2 11AM-5PM

Step back in time at NYC's oldest and most complete living history village!

The open air museum is alive with living history, demonstrated by costumed Historical Interpreters in structures throughout the site.

Richmond County Fair LABOR DAY WEEKEND | Sept. 3-5 | 12-7pm The Richmond County Fair is Staten Island’s annual community celebration and Historic Richmond Town’s biggest fundraiser. Enjoy rides, attractions, games, contests, living history demonstrations, live music and performances, food, and fun for the whole family all weekend long!

Purchase tickets online and save! www.historicrichmondtown.org/rcf-home

Old Home Day Oct. 15 & 16 | 10am-4pm

The village is alive with history at this time-honored event.

Enjoy hearty soup served in the rear-yard of the Tavern. Visit with the tinsmith, carpenter, blacksmith and basket-maker to discover how household items were made in early America. Through food, handcrafts, and demonstrations of music and sport, learn about cultural traditions of Staten Islanders from around the world.

Pumpkin Picking at Decker Farm October Weekends & Columbus Day | 11am-5pm Pumpkin Picking at Historic Richmond Town’s Decker Farm returns Saturday, October 1, with all of your favorite autumnal activities! Search the patch for the perfect pumpkin, learn about 19th century farm life, and indulge in delicious fall food favorites--all without leaving Staten Island!

TICKETS available online September 8

Follow Us

www.historicrichmondtown.org | 441 Clarke Ave. | (718) 351-1611 August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

7

Community News

What’s Happening

on Staten Island

By Barbara Russo

White House Officials Awed by SI’s Bluebelt Staten Island was on Washington’s radar last month when officials from the nation’s capital stopped by the borough’s Bluebelt, a cost-effective drainage system that naturally handles runoff precipitation, preventing flooding and providing habitat for wildlife.

Dr. Alondra Nelson, head of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), toured the borough’s New Creek Bluebelt and other areas focused on environmental resilience. Nelson, whose Staten Island visit was part of a wider New York City trip, wanted to learn about the innovations happening within the borough, especially as they pertain to the Bluebelt.

“It was great to visit Staten Island and see how the community is leading the way in deploying nature-based solutions to climate

change,” Nelson told Staten Island Parent. “In the Biden-Harris Administration, we’re big believers in the power and possibilities of naturebased solutions. The Staten Island Bluebelt System is a successful model of these and we

want to see this happening nationwide.”

As New York City continues to experience heavier rains, Bluebelts are more important than ever. They offer a natural and effective solution for stable and sound stormwater management.

“Nature-based solutions are lessening the devastation caused by extreme weather, helping local wildlife be able to thrive, transforming landfills, supporting jobs, and revitalizing nature across neighborhoods,” Nelson added.

“It was inspiring to see firsthand how projects like the Bluebelt and others around Staten Island – projects that combine federal resources with local ingenuity – might help other communities that face similar challenges.” Here’s to Staten Island making an impact on the whole country!

New Remote Learning option

New Sidewalks Help Improve Safety for Youth Sports Teams, Students Go take a walk—on New Dorp Lane’s new sidewalk! City officials cut the ribbon on a new set of sidewalks along the historic street adjacent to Miller Field, providing a smooth surface for all who use it. National Parks Service reps also attended the ceremony, since Miller Field is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area’s Staten Island Unit.

The project has added 6,300 square feet of sidewalk and two new pedestrian ramps to New Dorp Lane from Cedar Grove Av-

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enue to Roma Avenue, where there were no sidewalks before. The project helps improve safety for the many youth sports leagues, New Dorp High School students and others who use Miller Field.

“The completion of this sidewalk is an improvement for the entire neighborhood, especially along Miller Field which is used by thousands of children and families every year,” Vito Fossella, Staten Island borough president, said.

Could remote learning be here to stay in NYC? Maybe—if NYC Schools Chancellor David Banks gets his way. The chancellor recently unveiled a new at-home learning option, A School Without Walls, a program offering high schoolers hybrid and virtual learning options.

“The pandemic underscored the importance of reimagining the student experience for our children, giving them the opportunity to freely pursue their interests and passions as part of their high school journey," Banks said.

“We closely collaborated with students to design A School Without Walls program and we are taking the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic to reimagine school using innovative tools and practices.”

According to the chancellor, the program gives students freedom to design their own path to earning a high school diploma. Students will be encouraged to experience New York City and their local communities as their classroom. This will be done by way of internships, service learning and place-based learning initiatives. To learn more about the program, visit the DOE’s website at schools.nyc.gov.

Free Summer Meals for Staten Island Kids Got lunch? Staten Island kids can receive free summer meals now through Sept. 2. The city’s summer meals program offers free breakfast and lunch to any person in the city 18 years and younger.

No registration, documentation, or identification is necessary to receive a free breakfast or lunch meal at locations across the city.

Hours & Locations: Curtis High School 105 Hamilton Ave. Through Aug. 12 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm Faber Pools Richmond Terrace and Faber Street Through Sept. 2 Lunch: Daily except Sunday; 1-4pm I.S. 051 80 Willowbrook Rd. Through Aug. 19 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm I.S. 49 101 Warren St. Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm I.S. R002 333 Midland Ave. Through Sept 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm

P.S. 44 80 Maple Parkway Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-915am Lunch: Monday-Friday; 11am1:15pm

PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY

Musicals, Plays, Classes Workshops & Private Lessons

P.S. 48 1050 Targee St. Through Aug. 19 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm P.S. 55 54 Osborne St. Through Aug. 19 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-915am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm P.S. 57 140 Palma Dr. Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-915am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm P.S. 56 250 Kramer Ave. Through Aug. 19 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm

SpotlightTheatreSl.org

Lyons Pool Pier 6 and Victory Boulevard Through Sept. 2 Lunch: Daily except Sunday; 12-3pm

Space Shuttle Columbia School 77 Marsh Ave. Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-9:15am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm

P.S. 018 221 Broadway Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-915am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm

Tottenville Pool Hylan Boulevard and Joline Avenue Through Sept. 2 Lunch: Daily except Sunday; 12-3pm

P.S. 31 55 Layton Ave. Through Sept. 2 Breakfast: Monday-Friday; 8-915am. Lunch: MondayFriday; 11am-1:15pm

West Brighton Pool Henderson Avenue bet.

Broadway and Chappel Street Through Sept. 2 Lunch: Daily except Sunday; 1-4pm

­

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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sponsored content

New Special Needs Preschool Classrooms Opening on South Shore The Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC is excited to announce that it will be opening two new preschool classrooms for children with special needs this fall. The agency will now be able to serve 16 additional children at its South Shore/Avis location (1297 Arthur Kill Road).

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SIParent.com | August 2022

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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MOM HACKS

Back �� �ch��l Or�an�za�i�n Tips

BY LAURA KINSELLA

N

othing says back to school like a laundry list of to-do’s, coupled with the excitement of getting your family back on a regimented schedule. To help ease the back-toschool transition, we’ve got you covered with sure-fire ways to get your family organized and out the door long before that first bell rings!

1. Organize a drop zone Implement kid-level hooks or baskets near your entryway for backpacks, jackets, shoes, and any other item that can come off their little bodies. This will keep your floors clear, while establishing independent routines so you aren’t left picking up the pieces of the after school tornado. This includes designating a spot for water bottles and lunch boxes (if not kept inside their bags), so you can easily

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detect whether they’ve forgotten their lunch Tupperware before it starts growing another.

2. Address the papers and art work daily Kids come home with a lot of paperwork. And while it’s important to acknowledge their hard work, it’s equally as vital to keep the abundance in check. Clock a few minutes with your kids daily to empty their folders and bags. Finished worksheets or homework can be reviewed and recycled, and current work can go right to their desks or kitchen table for completion. Action papers like permission slips or math tests that need a signature can go to your processing zone or inbox so nothing important slips through the cracks. Special art work or sentimental items can either be displayed, placed in a bin (to evaluate midway or end of the year) or in a portfolio binder where your kids can flip through and

admire their art whenever they want. If you’re tech savvy, Artkive can digitize and organize your kids art by age and year, completely freeing you of the piles and guilt!

3. Prep a lunch box system Stash a bin in the fridge and pantry where you can portion out snack pouches of fruit, veggies, chips, crackers, etc. for the week. While the “main course” may be limited to a sandwich or some semblance of leftovers, kids can have full control over what fun snack they choose, as everything is (secretly) pre-approved by you!

4. Designate a homework station Whether you are purchasing new, or grabbing inventory from your home, create a one stop shop for all of the essentials like sharpened pencils, crayons, scissors, glue, etc. If your kids prefer to do their homework at the kitchen table, carve space in a nearby drawer or cabinet for items they’ll need to utilize or reference. If space is limited, a rolling rack can accommodate everything they need, and can be tucked out of sight at a moment’s notice for mealtime or company.

5. Get ready the night before With everyone having to get dressed and ready, mornings can get hectic fast! Prep as much as you can the night before, like aiding your kids in picking out their clothing, making sure their favorite shoes don’t have a

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mom hacks

colossal knot to untie, and packing backpacks (with everything from backup clothes, to homework, to stuffed animals for show and tell.) Streamline your mornings with simple breakfast options that your kids can access themselves, and set specific limits with the electronics in advance to avoid arguments or meltdowns when it’s time to go!

6. Establish an after-school routine We all know what time our kids have to be at the bus stop or drop off, but what happens when everyone comes home? Maintaining an afterschool routine is key, so everyone knows their role without having to be told or questioned.

Sketch out times to dedicate to homework, eating dinner, playtime, clean up, bath, and bedtime. The more kids feel aware and in control, the less they will resist, so plan a routine based on your families needs, and stick to it!

7. Keep (and reference) a family calendar If you’ve ever gotten your kids ready for school, only to realize it was “Clerical Day” (or another admin-type day off), then you

know how important keeping a calendar is. From birthday parties, to school events, to “dress like a pirate” day, there’s more to keep track of then our brains can handle.

Whether you prefer paper or digital, keep a calendar accessible so you can easily plug in important events, deadlines, and to-do’s. This keeps everyone’s activities accounted for, and provides a glance of what’s to come so there are no surprises the night before, or even worse, the morning of!

Laura Kinsella is the founder of Urban OrgaNYze, a New York City based home organizing company dedicated to helping individuals and families declutter, streamline, and style their space. As a born and bred New Yorker, and mom to a growing toddler, she blends principles of organizing and minimalism to transform even the trickiest of NYC homes.

She is a member of the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals (NAPO) and has been featured in A&E’s Hoarders, Apartment Therapy, & realtor.com to name a few. For tips and tricks, follow her on Instagram @urbanorganyze.

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

15

Education

Advanced Planning for High School Admissions What parents and students should be doing now to prepare

By Lisa speransky

N

ew York City is a unique place to grow up. High school students have access to some of the best-rated schools in the US, in addition to world-class museums, research libraries, and volunteer/internship opportunities. So why have so many of our friends left New York for the suburbs with the hopes of a better education for their kids, sometimes even enduring long and unpleasant commutes back to the city for work?

Despite the wealth of educational opportunities, NYC has to offer, it’s not as easy as simply registering your child for the local town school. That being said, I’m here to tell you that if you are well informed and have a plan of action, your child can have one of the best high school experiences imaginable.

You just can’t wait until 8th grade to start thinking about high school – forewarned is forearmed. So grab your to-do list, and let’s get started now!

Get to Know the Landscape Would you believe me if I said that there were 4 different application processes for public schools? Incredibly, there are! This means that in the spring of 8th grade when admissions offers are received, your child could have 4 or more options for high school.

So why close any doors? We recommend taking part in every one of these application processes if possible.

These are the 4 public school application

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processes: 1. General Education Schools – you make a list of 12 schools, ranked in true priority order.

2. The Specialized High Schools – the SHSAT, a test is given in the fall of 8th grade, is the sole criterion for admission.

3. Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School and the other 24 audition-based high schools – your child can audition for as many of the arts majors as they like.

4. Charter Schools – you enter a lottery for every individual school that interests you.

As far as a private school is concerned, each school has its own application, though Ravenna is used by many NYC schools so that you don’t have to fill out the same information multiple times.

Independent schools often require the SSAT or ISEE test to be taken in the fall of 8th grade. Religious schools sometimes also accept the SSAT and ISEE, but catholic schools prefer the TACHS test.

You can also look beyond the bounds of New York City by applying to boarding schools, which also usually require the SSAT. Some competitive schools have their own exam requirements, and most applications require essays and an interview.

It’s important to explore all of the options, especially in the early stages. The wider you cast your net, the more likely you are to find the school where your child will be happy.

Even if you think private school is out

of reach for your family, do not leave it off your list completely. Very high SSAT or ISEE scores, great grades, and a strong overall application may earn your child Start Before You’re Ready Whatever path you choose, I am sure you’re thinking that this sounds like a hell of a lot of work. It is! But understanding that most of this work is coming in 7th and 8th grades allows you to plan accordingly and get some things out of the way early. Here are some things to start doing now to take the stress out of the application process later: 1. Start exploring schools. A good place to start is InsideSchools and Parents League online. Get your child involved and excited about the process. Attend any tours or information sessions that are available to you, either in-person or online.

2. Sign up for high school admissions webinars and attend all available school fairs.

3. Make an informed middle school choice. Middle school is where your child will get the vital skills needed to be a confident high school applicant. Make sure to apply to schools that are challenging yet supportive.

4. Middle school grades and test scores matter. If there’s any time to get super involved in your child’s education, it’s now.

Pay extra attention during parent-teacher conferences and read your child’s report cards carefully. Flag potential issues and come up with a plan to address them, with special emphasis on math and ELA enrichment.

5. Get extra support. Leading into 7th and 8th grade, be sure to get to the bottom of any academic issues or blockages your child may be encountering. Do you suspect any executive functioning or organization issues, or any trouble with focus or attention?

Do what you need to do to get your child ready and up to speed so they can perform at their best when it counts, whether this means hiring a math tutor or consulting with

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

17

EducatIon

a learning differences specialist. Having a 504 or IEP in place before applying to high schools can be a huge advantage to students who need extra support.

6. Good attendance is another important admissions criterion for many schools. Do not let your child be late and, if they need to miss school, make sure those absences are excused.

Depending on your child’s emotional maturity, it may help to apprise them of the stakes and what the potential payoff is for working hard in 6th and 7th grades. If they have a particular dream high school, this can provide motivation and a goal to work towards.

But there’s a fine line between motivation and pressure. Getting into a high school that’s a great match for your child should be exciting, not stressful.

Encourage Reading All the high school entrance exams have a reading and grammar section. You can avoid hours of painful test prep by engaging in a regular reading regimen. Students who read regularly have an easier time retaining information, acquire a more robust vocabulary, and often develop the ability to read passages more quickly. These are all big advantages when it comes to standardized testing.

Reading is also the most painless way to learn vocabulary. Literacy expert Timothy Shanahan insists that students should read at least an hour a day to acquire knowledge and build vocabulary. Find a topic that excites your child and search out articles on that topic.

Love science fiction? How about the technology section of the NY Times? Reading about video games and social media also counts! If it’s words on a page, it’s all fair game.

We also love the DK series for young readers. Increasing the number of words your child understands and employs will not only help them achieve a higher baseline SHSAT, SSAT, ISEE, or TACHS score, but it will make them a better and faster reader. These are vital skills for high school and beyond.

Start Test Prep Early The good news is that a lot of the things mentioned in the first half of this article count as starting test prep early. Encouraging a daily reading practice, focusing on math and ELA enrichment, and making sure your child has the extra support they need will all lead to a higher baseline score, and therefore a shorter and less stressful test prep experience.

Our aim is for you to have to do as little

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SIParent.com | August 2022

Middle school grades and test scores matter. If there’s any time to get super involved in your child’s education, it’s now. test prep as possible. Since test prep consists of 3 things – content, strategy, and practice – you can get ahead of the game by simply making sure your child has a strong content foundation.

The next step is to have your child take a diagnostic exam, then determine a plan of action based on those results. 7th graders should take a diagnostic SHSAT, SSAT, ISEE, or TACHS exam in early Spring, though some students may start even sooner than that.

It’s important to know what is on each test and have your child commit to a consistent study plan (approximately 30 minutes of study per day). Your child should learn the essential content and test-taking strategies at a leisurely pace, and then take regular practice tests leading up to the test date.

Gather Materials While any individual school may have its own requirements, many private schools require a graded writing sample, including teacher’s comments, and some of the most competitive public schools also require an essay. Most private and boarding schools also request 2 letters of recommendation written by teachers, one in math or science and the other in humanities.

Instead of scrambling for that writing sample last minute or asking teachers to write recommendations at the same time everyone else does, keep these needs in mind way in advance. Which teachers have been most influential in your child’s life? Which will have the best things to say about your child?

Start conversations with those teachers now.

Keep essays and creative writing that received especially good teacher comments in a separate folder or, better yet, scan them and keep them on your desktop! If your child doesn’t get great comments on their writing assignments in 6th or 7th grade, ask teachers for extra help and additional tools to help them work towards becoming a better writer.

It’s important to make sure your child’s

writing is improving, especially between the 5th and 7th grades. By the end of 7th grade, students should know how to outline and write a critical essay with a thesis statement and evidence. How well is your child progressing towards that goal?

Discover Talent Since there are many options for art schools in New York City that require an audition or portfolio for entry – including the specialized public school you probably know, LaGuardia – why not help your child discover any hidden (or not hidden) talents? The audition high schools are not conservatories, so there’s no need to worry that art will prevent students from pursuing academic interests or getting into a good college.

On the contrary, students who make time for art, music, drama, or even technical theater are well-rounded and happier pursuing their creative interests. Audition high schools do not require students to have played piano since 3 years old or to have studied figure drawing; they want to see a demonstrable interest and passion for the arts, as well as a well-prepared audition or portfolio.

Applying to these schools allows you to cast a wider net, giving your child even more options for a fantastic high school experience. There’s no downside to applying, except the time it takes to prepare the audition or portfolio.

Knowledge is power. There’s a lot to know and learn about the high school admissions process, so we encourage you to continue doing your research and seek out experts who can answer your questions and assuage your concerns.

We hope this article has given you a lot to think about, as well as some concrete action items to get started on now. Remember, no other city in the world has the same wealth of educational opportunities on offer as New York City. So instead of getting anxious, get excited! With the right preparation and planning, your child is bound to have an incredible high school experience.

Lisa Speransky grew up in New York City, attending public schools PS 87, MS 54 and Bronx Science, before receiving her BA at Columbia University where she founded Ivy Tutors Network. Ivy Tutors Network specializes in catering to private clients and NYC schools (including as a proud DOE vendor). While running her education company, Lisa has also had a 13-year corporate career in consumer products, spending 3 of those years in a C-level role before returning to IVY to pursue her mission to help students find joy in learning.

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

19

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1466 Manor Road 1297 Arthur Kill Road 2221 Richmond Avenue 718-475-5278 dhayes@sijcc.com sijcc.org/first-foot-forward First Foot Forward is a preschool program for children 2.6 to 5 years old with developmental needs.

The individualized curriculum allows children to reach their full potential in a nurturing environment. New York City and State fund programming.

All services (evaluations, transportation, tuition) are at no direct cost to parents.

High Hopes Childcare and Pre-school 1298 Woodrow Road 718-317-8143 admin@highhopeschildcare. com High Hopes Childcare has offered quality childcare in a safe and loving environment since 1996. They are DOH licensed and have been collaborating with the DOE since the inception of UPK in 1996. The school offers programs for Infants through age 5 and is open Monday through Friday, 7am to 4:30pm.

JCC of Staten Island 1466 Manor Road 2221 Richmond Ave. 1297 Arthur Kill Road 485 Victory Blvd 718-475-5230 jsmith@sijcc.org • sijcc.org JCC of Staten Island offers a stimulating, individualized, age-appropriate curriculum.

A developmental approach fosters social and emotional growth. Daycare starts at 3 months, plus 3-K For All, and Pre-K For All. Extended hours available.

Tender Care Preschool Catholic Charities of Staten Island 6581 Hylan Blvd.

718-317-2849 lmazzo@cc-si.org Tender Care Preschool is a loving and caring place for children and families.

The school supports children where they need it and challenges them when they are ready for

the next step. At Tender Care Preschool, children become lifelong learners with a strong foundation and are well prepared for their educational journey. Full day 2-year-old class and free full day 3K and pre-K, plus extended hours (7am-6pm) are available.

Tiny Treasures Academy 360 Van Duzer Street, Staten Island, NY 718-273-5157 Tinytreasuresdaycare.com main@tinytacademy.com Tiny Treasures Academy is a daycare and wellness center with a twist on traditional ways of enhancing children’s development and supporting the modern-day parent. We differentiate ourselves by offering a holistic approach in both body and mind to equip kids with tools for a healthier and happier life.

Custom schedules available.

St. John’s Lutheran SchoolStaten Island 663 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 718-761-1858 School.stjohnslutheransi.org St. John’s Lutheran School is a small christian school that provides each child and family with the attention they deserve. The small class sizes allow talented teachers to tailor education according to the student’s needs. The family-oriented climate and strong academic foundation means success for all.

St Joseph Hill Academy 850 Hylan Boulevard egregor@stjhill.org www.stjosephhillacademy. com St Joseph Hill Academy is where tradition meets innovation. SJHA Elementary School provides a premier, coed Catholic education from early childhood (beginning with pre-k 3) through eighth grade.

SJHA offers after school care, student clubs, athletic teams, and summer camps.

Under the direction of the Daughters of Divine Charity, the school is a PLTW Gateway Distinguished School.

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

21

Local Spotlight

Poetic Victory for Staten Island Teen S.I. Tech student named National Youth Poet Laureate finalist

really stood out.

“What stood out about Elizabeth’s application is her deep commitment to her sense of place and her community. Many of her poems talk about her home and how her community functions— the great things and the problematic things,” Davis said. “She does an excellent job of weaving that in poetry.”

In addition to putting her thoughts, feelings and observations into words, Shvarts works in her community around the issues she finds important— another factor that stood out to the judges, most of whom are poets, scholars and activists themselves.

By Barbara Russo

H

ave you heard the word? Urban Word NYC, an organization whose goal is to promote creative literacy in the city’s youth through uncensored writing, has announced the regional winners of its National Youth Poet Laureate program – and one is a Staten Islander!

Elizabeth Shvarts, 17, is this year’s National Youth Poet Laureate Northeast Region finalist. She is a first-generation Russian-Jewish American from Grasmere. Growing up in New York, her experiences inspire her poetry and her expertise in supporting and caring for communities. A poet since age 7, Shvarts has stuck with her passion and uses it to make a difference in the world.

Her love of poetry and also songwriting—she’s a big Taylor Swift fan— was amplified when she became a freshman at Staten Island Technical High School in New Dorp. She became involved in Climate Speaks, an advocacy program around the climate crisis that included a spoken word performance.

“I just remember the joy of creating art with fellow poets and friends and being able to shape minds and hearts with poems,” Shvarts explained “I wanted to keep doing that so I came to Urban Word. I’m so grateful for the community of friends and poets that I have there.”

Since then, she’s been active in many programs offered by Urban Word to help foster her poetry skills and creativity, all while on the path to becoming a youth poet laureate finalist.

About the National Youth Poet Laureate Program The National Youth Poet Laureate program, an initiative of the literary arts and civic

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engagement nonprofit, Urban Word, recognizes the country’s top poets who are committed to artistic excellence, civic engagement and social impact. A small handful of finalists—including Shvarts— were chosen from throughout the country and announced in May. “These poets are truly awe-inspiring as writers and artists. Their craft, the way that they approach difficult subject matter and the deftness with which they assert their politics is spellbinding,” Michael Cirelli, founder of the National Youth Poet Laureate program, said. “But what is even more remarkable is that these teen writers have already committed their lives to making their communities and the world a better place. These are the changemakers that are rewriting our futures.”

Shvarts’ application to the program included a portfolio of poems about her life experiences and community. Camea Davis, Ph.D., national director of the Youth Poet Laureate program, was impressed with Shvarts’ poems. Although she didn’t participate in choosing the finalists, Davis said the young Staten Islander’s application

Bridge to Literacy Shvarts has a community engagement resume that many would say is remarkable for someone at her young age. She cofounded the Bridge to Literacy program, an organization that strives to foster a love of language by teaching literacy to children from underserved communities.

As part of the program, Shvarts and fellow Bridge to Literacy team members organize book drives, electronics drives and fundraisers on Staten Island and across the city. The team recently held a book drive on Staten Island to send books to Ukraine, Kenya and Honduras. More information Bridge to Literacy is available on the organization’s website, bridgetoliteracy.com.

Now that the school has wrapped up, Shvarts is getting ready for another chapter in her life. Come fall, she’ll be a student at Yale University, New Haven, CT. She has some strong ideas on what she’ll eventually major in, but no matter what she decides, her love of words will continue.

“I love bringing joy to people, specifically radical joy,” Shvarts said. “It’s reminding people they are worthy of love and achieving the dreams that they set for themselves while also being able to make people question their preconceived notions about a certain topic and spark conversation around important issues.”

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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afterschool | Staten Island Parent Partners

10 Best Staten Island’s

Afterschool Programs & Activities P

arents know that finding an afterschool program can be challenging. It is all important. The activity portion, the hours, and most significantly, we want it to be an enriching experience for our kids.

There are many reasons, some personal and others obvious (our workload, afterschool stimulation is beneficial for kids), that a parent chooses to place their child in an afterschool program. Thankfully, we live in New York where we have amazing resources. But let’s get uber-focus on the Staten Island area. As you prepare for the upcoming school year, we have the 10 Best Activity and Afterschool programs standouts for you to choose from that not only will you be happy, but most notably, your child will!

Center Stage Dance Co. Ltd. 10 Akron St. 718-982-9226 centerstagedancecoltd.org

Center Stage Dance Company opened in 2013 with the goal of educating and embracing all children into the sacred dance space where young dancers can strengthen their technique and grow as artists.

A strong focus is placed on high quality dance instruction as well as an emphasis on inclusivity. Regardless of the age or experience level of your dancer, they will feel strong, accepted, accomplished and talented! A variety of classes are offered in different genres of dance for different age groups, ages 2 to adult.

Center Stage is the home of a nationally recognized, award-winning competitive team, along with a plethora of recreational classes.

Providing a safe environment for dancers to experience both highquality dance education and memories to last a lifetime is a priority.

Children learn what the value of community in dance truly means, and spirit and good sportsmanship are promoted throughout all programs. Center Stage students have performed in various venues across the country. This summer, the dance company is expanding to two newly renovated, state-of-the-art dance studios, providing even more space and more classes for all dancers, old and new. Interested in trying a class? New dancers receive their first class free.

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DEA Music & Art 1409 Richmond Ave. 19 Saint Mary’s Ave. 57 Page Ave. 718-370-7733

DEAMusicandart.com With a welcoming and vibrant community, learning at DEA Music & Art School is an experience like no other. Students not only take home their skill set from music or arts lessons but also memorable experiences that will last them forever! DEA offers many programs including specific instruments and musical theater summer classes for those who want it all rolled into one. There really isn’t anything they do not offer when it comes to music and art. DEA offers opportunities for students of all ages to get involved in creative endeavors that they may be passionate about and might not have access to otherwise. DEA has a strong commitment to the local community and provides outreach programs to schools and organizations that may not have the resources to offer their own arts programming. DEA offers a wide range of programs in music, visual and performing arts all taught by professional musicians and creators. Get started with a free trial class and unlock the world of music and art and your child’s inner potential.

Eye Level 1409 Richmond Ave. 1461 Hylan Blvd.

718-494-1232 valentino8808@gmail.com

Eye Level NY aims to provide every student with the best possible academic enrichment environment by utilizing an individualized, systematic program that caters to all abilities regardless of age or grade level so that parents can be confident about where their child’s education will lead them. Eye Level’s English program helps students reach their full potential by developing the skills they need to excel in life through a systemized curriculum with targeted lessons that target specific language skills at each grade level, starting from infancy all the way up until high school graduation. Eye Level’s math program is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of the mathematical principles they are learning. The dynamic curriculum engages learners by guiding them step-by-step through each concept, master skill and idea as it becomes foundational knowledge for future math success. Parents can enroll their children this fall for a free assessment to get started.

JCC of Staten Island 1466 Manor Road SIJCC.org

Education meets fun at Explorers! The Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC’s Explorers after school program aims to educate the whole child through various kinds of activities that stimulate the mind, body and spirit. The program includes academic support, homework help, and STEAM activities.

Children also play games, exercise, and swim, and enjoy social-emotional learning activities and meditation.

The program is open until 7pm on school days and serves children entering grades K-8. Snacks are provided to all children, and additional food is available for purchase. Transportation from schools is based on enrollment. Half-day pickup is included.

Explorers offers an Inclusion Program and accepts OPWDD/Self Direction. An interview is required for enrollment.The JCC also offers additional after school programs, including basketball, soccer, aquatics, and music. For more information on all these programs, visit SIJCC.org

Holy Child Soccer Club holychildsoccer.org

Holy Child Soccer Club recognizes the many benefits of playing youth soccer and offers Staten Island’s young athletes a program that is safe, enjoyable and a quality experience for all players. Their dedicated staff is committed to emphasizing the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship in all of their players and an understanding of teamwork and friendship. Every child, regardless of play level or experience, receives an opportunity to develop and achieve their goals. Holy Child Soccer is a member of the Staten Island Youth Soccer League and plays against other parishes and community based organizations on Staten Island. Games are typically played on weekends with practices scheduled by the team’s coach on weekdays after school. Registration includes play in both the fall and spring seasons.

Spotlight Studios 358 Forest Ave. 718-207-1128 spotlighttheatresi.org

Spotlight Theatre provides an innovative performing arts experience to young actors and artists in the community.

Participants enroll in theater productions of Broadway musicals, workshops of original works and theater arts classes. Spotlight Theatre aims to enrich the lives of young people and their families through live productions and high-quality entertainment, and to provide formal education in the performing arts. Their mission is to introduce and cultivate a love of theater in Staten Island students and to inspire children to dream, explore, think, and connect through imaginative storytelling on stage and in the studio. With the goal of transforming young actors and audiences into creative, curious, and compassionate adults, Spotlight Theatre believes that theater can create community by bringing together a diverse membership and audience that encompasses all ages, ethnicities, abilities, and backgrounds, as well as provide a unique cultural resource and enriching the lives of all who come in contact with their actors, artists and audience.

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

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afterschool | Staten Island Parent Partners

Staten Island Lacrosse 848-456-4794 statenislandlax.com

Staten Island Lacrosse has been working with Staten Island youth for 15 years. The oldest lacrosse program in Staten Island, the organization is solely dedicated to athletes who are interested in learning and playing the fastest growing sport in America.

Their programs are coed and they work with athletes as young as 8 years old and up to high school. With over 53 combined years of coaching experience and countless years of college play, the staff is dedicated to taking young athletes to their highest potential. Available programs include one on one training, clinics, seasonal leagues, summer, fall, and indoor winter camps along with a College Showcase Tournament Team, which consists of top athletes who play against teams from all over the country as college coaches come to observe and recruit. The College Showcase athletes have received over 250 offer letters from colleges and universities. Many have had little to no lacrosse training but with hard work have achieved their goals. Staten Island Lacrosse continues to work closely with all colleges and universities to help future athletes obtain that same opportunity.

Staten Island Skating Pavilion 3080 Arthur Kill Road thepavilion.org

The Staten Island Skating Pavilion is a year-round indoor ice-skating facility that has been serving the Staten Island community for over 25 years. In the spirit of teamwork, safety and sportsmanship, SISP provides high quality programs to teach and support the sports of ice hockey, figure skating and other ice-related activities for people of all ages and abilities. The Pavilion Learn to Skate program is recognized by U.S. Figure Skating for its achievements. It’s available to beginners through advanced skaters ages 3 and up. Coaches are Learn to Skate USA & Safe Sport certified with decades of experience. Prodigy Preschool, located at the Staten Island Skating Pavilion, is a Department of Education Pre-K For All 4-year-old program. All students receive a high-quality education while also enjoying ice skating lessons as part of their curriculum.

The Resource Room 534 Forest Avenue 718-838-0085 resourceroomsi.com

The Resource Room learning Center offers private tutoring services by some of the best and most experienced tutors in their subject areas.

The Resource Room’s programs are tailored to the individual needs of each student and their goal is to focus on and improve a student’s classroom grades. Resource Room also offers a high-quality SAT/ACT Prep Program for students taking either or both College Entrance Exams. With professional teachers, a proprietary curriculum, and a record of proven success, The Resource Room has become the go-to choice for Staten Island parents and students. With in-person, one-on-one services as the hallmark of their approach, students receive high-quality instruction that boosts their confidence and motivates them to succeed. With a full slate of STEM offerings, The Resource Room adds an additional layer to their educational experience by providing several options including Lego Robotics, 3D Printing, Drones, and Robots. With a comprehensive offering of educational services, Resource Room is a premier learning center backed by experience, professionalism, and a five-star rating. Resource Room always puts the needs of its clients first, and parents and students are guided based on the proper approach for each individual student.

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Victory Gymnastics 3575 Victory Blvd 718-983-9090 victorygymnasticscenter.com

Victory Gymnastics Center is proud to be Staten Island’s longestrunning gymnastics facility. After opening their doors in 1980, they have had the pleasure of providing families of all ages with gymnastics, tumbling, parent and child programs, birthday parties, and competitive team programs. The increased strength, flexibility and coordination athletes gain from gymnastics will carry over to their performance in various other sports. One of their primary goals has always been to help increase the self-esteem of the children who participate in their programs. This positive atmosphere gives children the confidence to participate successfully in school and athletics alike.

HOLY CHILD SOCCER CLUB

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Two newly renovated spaces ready for summer 2022 Center Stage Dance Co Ltd. 10 Akron St, Staten Island, NY 10314 718.982.9226 • Centerstagedancecoltd.org Centerstagedanceltd@yahoo.com

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STATEN ISLAND LACROSSE

Staten Island’s Top Lacrosse Program Staten Island Lacrosse is solely dedicated to athletes interested in learning and playing lacrosse.

Our staff - with over 55 years of combined coaching experience - work with all levels from beginner to advanced. Players are broken down into groups where athletes train, practice and play with players of equal skill level.

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27

Raising teenagers

Your Teen Is Driving. Now What?

Smart tips for keeping your new driver (and all the drivers around them) safe on the road

By Mia Salas

I

t’s an exciting milestone when our kids first get their driver’s licenses. It seems like just the other day that we strapped them into their carseats, and now they’re behind the wheel. However, it’s also scary that our 16 and 17-year-olds are going to be on the roads by themselves.

In fact, according to the New York State Department of Health, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of unintentional deaths for teens ages 16 to 17 in New York. Every day, about 10 people are killed or seen in hospitals due to car crashes caused by a teen driver. The CDC also reports that almost 2,400 teens aged 13–19 lost their lives in car crashes in 2019. With stats like these, how could we even allow our kids on the road at all? Well, there are certain safety measures we can take as parents to prepare our teens for safe driving. Read on for tools and resources to protect your child behind the wheel and others around them.

Practice with your teen driver.

According to the CDC, driver inexperience is a leading contributor to crashes and injuries for teen drivers. Therefore, it’s important that they have enough supervised practice through various types of conditions– rain, snow, traffic, hills, etc. The CDC recommends that you ride in the car with your teen for at least 30 to 50 hours to ensure they’re ready to take on the roads alone.

Limit their passengers. Keeping your child safe is important, but it’s also necessary to ensure the safety of others. With more passengers in the car, there’s more opportunity for distraction. Try to set a limit, such as 1 passenger per car ride, for their first few months driving.

Set a curfew. The CDC lists nighttime driving as a danger zone for teen drivers.

It’s best to set a time that your teen has to be home so they’re not driving too late at night when they first get their license.

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SIParent.com | August 2022

Have open conversations. Mistakes happen, but you want to make sure you catch them if they do. That’s why it’s important to have open conversations with your teen about their driving. Whether that’s their concerns or yours, create a space to talk about them so they feel comfortable coming to you.

iPhones offer a feature that automatically silences notifications while you’re driving.

To set this up on your child’s phone, tap “Settings”, “Focus”, the “+” button to add a new focus time, and then “Driving”. This will ensure that your child isn’t texting their friends behind the wheel.

Apps/Tech That Will Ease Your Mind Life360: Much like Apple’s “Find My” app, Life360 allows you to track your child’s location. But Life360 has a special feature that’s especially helpful for new drivers– speed reporting. Unsafe speed continues to be the leading cause of accidents in New York. The New York State Department of Health reported that for 21% of car crashes involving teens ages 16 to 17, unsafe speed was a factor, as compared to 10% for ages 25 to 49. With Life360, you can see where your teen is driving and how fast they’re going. That way, if you do notice unsafe driving speeds, you can get ahead of the issue and address their speed before an accident happens.

GEICO DriveEasy. If you already have GEICO car insurance, you may be able to save money and keep your teen safe at the same time. The GEICO Mobile app offers a DriveEasy program that monitors your phone use while driving. If you don’t use your phone, you’ll have a higher score which then lowers your insurance rate. If your teen does use their phone while driving, you’ll be able to monitor that and intervene before it happens again.

Driving Focus. Alongside unsafe speeds, driving distractions is another leading cause of teen car accidents in New York. Luckily,

Seat Belt Reminders. According to the New York State Department of Health, teen drivers and their passengers are over four times more likely to experience brain injury or be ejected from the vehicle if they do not have their seat belt on properly. That’s why it’s important to choose a vehicle that has a seat belt reminder when the seat belt isn’t on.

Some cars even offer automatic seatbelts!

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

29

mom stories

My Daughter is Starting Middle School and Neither of Us are Ready for It

By Jeannine Cintron

M

y daughter and I have this little thing we have been doing for as long as I can remember. We blow a kiss to each other, then catch the other’s kiss in the air, tilt our heads, and hold it against our hearts while smiling big. It might sound a little cheesy to you, but it’s actually very sweet. It’s like our little silent signal to one another that says “I’m right here and I love you and I always will.” We have done it thousands of times – in crowded rooms, across school auditoriums, in the car while driving away.

Sometimes she even texts the exchange to me in emojis (thank goodness for copy-andpaste simplifying the process of sending it back). Last week we were at Six Flags and we did it on a roller coaster! It’s very symbolic of our close relationship, and it’s very special to us both. I cannot picture a day where I will blow her a kiss that goes uncaught or unreturned. But that day might be coming sooner than I think.

My little girl just graduated elementary school. While I’m still trying to wrap my head around the fact that I no longer have a child in elementary school (and one starting high school too, but that’s another story), she is about to reach a major milestone in her young life: Middle School.

The middle school years are tough. I remember my own junior high experience in a good amount of painful detail. You’re struggling with your own identity while trying desperately to fit in. You’re in a new, bigger place, with new, bigger kids, and new, bigger problems. The teachers don’t want to hear about your recess drama and they certainly won’t be bending down to tie your shoes or letting missing homework assignments slide with a note from Mom. It’s a huge adjustment for a 10-11 year old.

There is no other institution in their lives where they will enter and leave as two such completely different people. I don’t know about you, but I’d happily go back to any other time in my young life than those awkward middle school years.

While many kids her age seem to be in a

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SIParent.com | August 2022

rush to grow up, my daughter is still playing with fidget toys and watching cartoons and frequently off in her own little lala land of make believe.

She’s still very innocent and at times even a little babyish for her age (which I am fine with – I already have one moody teenager and I’m in no rush to have another).

I often see other kids her age growing up way too fast. I’m never one to judge, as every child grows at their own pace. But when I see other young girls her age dressed to appear older, going out on dates and making inappropriate TikTok videos, I feel some relief that our biggest fights are usually over her stealing my lotions to make slime.

As the first day of school approaches, I am reminded that some of that sweetness, that seemingly angelic innocence, will soon begin to wear away and be replaced by preteen angst.

It’s hard to picture in such a sweet kid but it’s literally science. In fact, I watched a Netflix documentary recently about the teenage brain that confirmed all the changes and difficulties she will soon be facing daily. Peer pressure, risk-taking, poor impulse control, to name a few. The combination of hormones and neuroscience pretty much guarantee that someday I will send an air-kiss her way that will go unreturned.

If this would to happen- it would break my heart, admittedly. My baby won’t be a baby anymore! The thought is so depressing.

What I have to remind myself is that she is still going to be MY baby. The middle

school years will be tricky but I’ll stay strong knowing my baby is still in there somewhere.

Someday – maybe at her high school graduation, maybe at her college graduation, maybe not until her wedding day – she will return my kiss in a crowded room again.

Or maybe I’ll get lucky and she will never stop in the first place.

Lions Kids Club held @ Farrell HS is a USA Wrestling Chartered youth wrestling program for boys and girls k-8th grade.

Instruction focuses on folkstyle wrestling, sportsmanship and physical fitness.

Our goal is to build our wrestlers up to reach their full potential on and off the mat.

Registration for the new season is August 18.

Free trial sessions from August 8-18.

Call to reserve a space.

Private Lessons are available. We compete in the tristate area, as well as some State and National level tournaments.

Email: lionskidsclub97@gmail.com Phone: 917-748-6717

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

31

✂ CLIP & SAVE!

2022-2023 NYC School Calendar

32

September 8

First day of school

September 15

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools, and Pre-K Centers

September 22

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools

September 26–27

Rosh Hashanah, schools closed

September 29

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools

October 5

Yom Kippur, schools closed

October 10

Italian Heritage / Indigenous Peoples’ Day, schools closed

November 3

Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early.

November 8

Election Day, students do not attend school

November 9

Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early.

November 11

Veterans Day, schools closed

November 17

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools

November 18

Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early.

November 24–25

Thanksgiving Recess, schools closed

December 26

Christmas Day (observed), schools closed

December 27–30

Winter Recess, schools closed

January 2

New Year’s Day (observed), schools closed

January 16

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, schools closed

January 24–27

Regents Administration

January 30

Professional Development Day for high schools and 6–12 schools; students in these schools do not attend.

January 31

Spring Semester begins

February 20–24

Midwinter Recess, schools closed (includes Presidents Day and Lincoln’s Birthday (observed)

March 9

Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools and Pre-K Centers; students in these schools dismissed three hours early.

March 16

Afternoon and Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools

March 23

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools

March 24

Afternoon Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools; students in these schools dismissed three hours early.

April 6–14

Spring Recess, schools closed

April 21

Eid al-Fitr, schools closed

May 4

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for elementary schools and Pre-K Centers

May 11

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for middle schools and D75 schools

May 18

Evening Parent-Teacher Conferences for high schools, K–12, and 6–12 schools

May 29

Memorial Day, schools closed

June 8

Anniversary Day / Chancellor’s Conference Day for staff development; students do not attend.

June 9

Clerical Day for elementary schools, middle schools, K–12 schools, and standalone D75 programs; students in these schools do not attend.

June 14–23

Regents Administration (excluding June 19, when schools are closed)

June 19

Juneteenth, schools closed

June 27

Last day of school for students

SIParent.com | August 2022

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August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

33

Family (Care) Matters

Founder of The Fifth Trimester, Lauren Smith Brody, chats postpartum victories, her unique advice for going back to work, and how paid family leave actually benefits us all

By Cris Pearlstein

“S

he was my coach when I returned from maternity leave,” the DM read. “She’s the best!” I had just posted a photo of Lauren Smith Brody and myself from our Zoom meeting where I interviewed her for this cover story—and the responses came fast. See, Lauren’s company, The Fifth Trimester, has quite a loyal following on Instagram. Since her book of the same name was released in 2017, she has tapped into this section of #momlife that not a lot of people were paying much attention to: the return from maternity leave. The company’s homepage says it best, “The first three trimesters are pregnancy. The fourth is the newborn haze. But The Fifth Trimester? It’s when the working mom is born.”

But this response in my DM’s caught my eye because it wasn’t from any of the mutual connections I knew Lauren and I shared.

Those responses I was expecting. Instead, it was from a high school acquaintance who I hadn’t spoken to in many years. The law firm where she worked was offering Lauren’s coaching services to its new parents and, despite it being her second child and “not my first rodeo”, she decided to take the opportunity and schedule a call. I have to admit I was floored when I read her email detailing how the coaching sessions helped her to find her footing after maternity leave, left her with valuable takeaways, and “provided a sounding board” for how to succeed both at work and at home. I’ve always heard of companies offering services like this, but never knew anyone who actually benefited from them.

At that moment I knew Lauren’s work was making a true impact in the lives of real moms in the workforce. And when my acquaintance said she would “wholeheartedly recommend” Lauren’s coaching services to “anyone and everyone”, I also knew she had hit on something I bet so many of us didn’t even know we needed.

Because we didn’t even know it existed. Be-

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SIParent.com | August 2022

cause new parents, especially new moms, are so used to having little to no help that they think it’s normal. Well, if I’ve learned one thing from this assignment it’s that moms—and dads, and caregivers, and anyone whose job it is to take care of someone other than themselves—deserve more than what’s been considered normal up to this point.

Keep reading to hear how Lauren is trying to affect change from the inside, the amazing group of women working alongside her, and why offering paid family leave benefits every single one of us.

CP: Tell me about your maternity leave journey.

LSB: As an editor at Glamour it seemed like I was set up to have the perfect entry into working motherhood, and yet it was devastatingly hard. I just didn’t know how tiny and needy newborns were, and how little they could give back to you in the beginning.

And so I had postpartum anxiety during my maternity leave. I was just starting to come out of it when it was time to go back to work, so it was an enormous struggle—even from the privilege of, at that point, being an executive. I felt competent at my job and yet coming back after having my first son, Will, felt like my first day at my first internship when I was 17 years old. It was terrible. What I didn’t understand at the time was that it wasn’t my fault.

I think like a lot of new moms I internalized a lot of guilt. Now I completely reject mom guilt, because what I didn’t realize then was that the systems weren’t set up to support me. I knew I had this amazing husband, fancy job, healthy, fairly easy baby, but couldn’t understand why this was still so hard. It must be something that was wrong with me. What I didn’t know then was that all of the studies that I’ve since researched show you need six months of paid leave. That’s the minimum amount to be protective of mom’s mental health, mom’s physical health, baby’s physical

health, partner’s bond with the baby, and your ability to maintain your income. So I struggled through it.

CP: Tell me about when you came up with the idea of The Fifth Trimester.

LSB: I was a very open and honest manager. I admitted I was slurring my words because I didn’t sleep the night before, which sometimes felt like a radical act. There was a specific moment when I was back from maternity leave when a coworker came into my office with a problem. I fixed it and she was so grateful and told me how much she missed me. I thanked her, but confessed I didn’t always feel like I was succeeding in those days. She said, “No one has shown me what it’s actually like…that it’s hard and yet you can still be good at your job, and it’s worth it.” Motherhood was far in her future, she was in her 20’s with a boyfriend, but she said everyone else was hiding it. She thanked me for showing her that it’s hard but that she can maybe do it one day, too. That was a huge eureka moment for me. As a manager what I had thought was a failure, was not. What I had done was shown this woman, and maybe even some of my other colleagues, that they had longevity in this career and they would be able to do it even if it was hard. That planted a seed.

Then I had my second son, Teddy, and a second challenging return. I had read Harvey Karp’s book “The Happiest Baby on the Block,” and his idea of the fourth trimester really rang true to me. It’s this idea that humans are born three months premature compared to other mammals. That’s why the fawn is born walking, but humans don’t really wake up until week 12, which is why he advises all of the shushing, the swaddling, and all the things to recreate the feeling of the womb—and it was all working on my baby. His advice is “mama, just get to 12 weeks,” and I thought ugh that’s when I have to go back to work. At that time I had a good maternity leave compared to most

having some of the most challenging, yet most interesting work of his life while I’m sitting here in my pajamas watching my income fall, watching my kids become somewhat feral, just trying to make everything ok. I knew I had the best of everything in my favor, but I will tell you I was freaking the fuck out. I tried to buy a liferaft. I bought powdered eggs.

Within a month I figured out, as we were starting to hear about what was happening with women in the workforce, how inequitable the division of labor was in the homes. I realized it was nobody’s fault. I realized people came into their relationships in a progressive manner, but look at me. My husband was the one with health insurance and he was doing work that had to be done outside the home, so it all fell on me. I became a little more empathetic to couples who were operating in a system that forced them to divide along those lines.

Photo by Michelle Rose/Michelle Rose Photo

women, and I knew it even then, so that was hard to swallow, and it made me realize that there’s actually a whole fifth trimester. I started to think of it as a developmental phase, as a transition to get through. It helped me to find meaning in my work because at that point the actual tasks of my job weren’t exciting to me anymore, but being able to teach and mentor other people started to have a lot more meaning to me.

After I left Glamour a year of meetings gave me the foundation I needed to be able to say, “I’m starting a business”.

At that point The Fifth Trimester was me doing a lot of speaking engagements, I was doing some consulting, helping businesses doing a better job of retaining women and moms, and making the economic case. I learned pretty quickly I couldn’t just say, “It’s the right thing to do,” I had to give them the ROI. I knew it would have a ripple effect, but I was seen as “the new mom person.” And then the pandemic hit and every single speaking engagement I had for the year fell off my spreadsheet. My kids were home andmy husband was gone 15 hours a day because he works in a hospital as a doctor. He’s

CP: What advice do you have for moms who are gearing up to go back to paid work after having a baby?

LSB: The advice I would give to anyone is to know their impact. Know that for everything they are a little more transparent about, every negotiation they engage in, everything they do that sort of stretches their boundaries a little bit in terms of their comfort and ability to protect their income, is not just for them and their family. Very often the first time women negotiate for something really important at work is in their fifth trimester and they’re doing it with the highest stakes possible: the health, wellness, and safety of their families. That comes with a lot of pressure and one way to diffuse that pressure is to know that it’s not just for you, you’re not being selfish. It is for your colleagues who for one reason or another may be marginalized in a way that you’re not, and may not be able to speak as loudly or directly as you’re able to. So whatever bit of privilege you may have, use it to ask for the thing you need knowing it’s also for your colleagues who also have caregiving needs.

When mothers go back to paid work, people like to say they are more efficient. But actually they’re better at saying no. I believe they are better at giving more meaningful yesses because by the time they agree, they've already had to do so much mental math to make it work that it is a very committed and real yes. It’s a lot of reframing.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. To read the story in its entirety visit newyorkfamily.com August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

35

calendar Things to do in august

By Barbara Russo

S

ummer is still going strong, and there are so many exciting things to do this month before the kids head back to school. Here are some of this month’s most exciting events in Staten Island.

Be sure to call ahead or visit event websites to confirm details. Go to siparent.com/events for details on the events listed here and even more stuff to do with your family throughout the month!

Historic Richmond Town Open Village

Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm through Oct. 2 Historic Richmond Town 441 Clarke Ave. Historic Richmond Town comes alive with the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of New York City’s past.

Heritage Farm Stand Saturdays

Saturdays; 9am-3:30pm through Nov. 19 Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden 1000 Richmond Terr.

Explore fresh produce harvested from the Heritage Farm.

Workouts with Spiderman

Thursdays through Aug. 25; 6-7pm Empire Outlets 55 Richmond Terr.

Get in superhero shape at these exciting workouts for kids Puppetmobile: Little Red’s Hood

Tuesday, Aug. 2; 4-4:45pm Midland Beach Promenade on Father Capodanno Boulevard Tuesday, Aug. 9; 11am and 1pm Schmul Park at Pearson Street and

36

Mexican Dance Workshop at the Staten Island Children's Museum Watson Avenue Thursday, Aug. 25; 11am and 1pm Austin J. McDonald Playground at Myrtle Avenue and Broadway Puppetmobile is back with Little Red’s Hood, a fresh retelling of the classic story, Little Red Riding Hood.

Eco-Art Paper Flowers

Wednesday, Aug. 3; 10am-12pm High Rock Park 200 Nevada Ave. Kids will use recycled materials to make beautiful wildflower art.

Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band

Wednesday, Aug. 3; 6-7pm Staten Island Children’s Museum

SIParent.com | August 2022

1000 Richmond Terr.

The Caribbean Vibe Steel Drum Band will take you to the islands with their repertoire of reggae and other party favorites.

Lane Smith. In this fun performance, the Big, Bad Wolf presents his side of the story from the classic tale. But whether he’ll get a fair trial is anyone’s guess!

Musical: The True Story of the Three Little Pigs!

High Rock Stock

Saturday, Aug. 6, and Sunday, Aug. 7, at 2pm each day. There will be a sensory-friendly showing on Aug. 6 at 11am.

The Commons at The Brielle 145 Friendship Ln. This summer, IlluminArt Productions will present an exciting, family-friendly musical called, “The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!,” based on the book of the same name by Jon Scieszka and

Sunday, Aug. 7; 4pm High Rock Park 200 Nevada Ave. The Viva Voce Chorus performs music from the Woodstock era at High Rock Park. Wear clothes inspired by the 1960s, and be ready to sing along!

Free Kayaking on Staten Island

Saturday, Aug. 13 and Sunday, Aug. 28; 9am

August

calendar

MORE UNBUBBLIEVABLE

T H A N EV E R !

“ ENCHANTING!” -THE NEW YORK TIMES

Falcon Fun at the Staten Island Children's Museum 850 Page Ave. Enjoy free kayaking on Staten Island’s South Shore. Kayaks and other equipment provided. Kids must be accompanied by an adult.

Falcon Fun

Sunday, Aug. 14; 1-2pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr.

Head to the museum as Wildlife Revealed presents Sky Kings, featuring hawks, owls, falcons and other fantastic birds of prey in free flight.

Concert: 50th Anniversary of Gateway National Recreation Area

Thursday, Aug. 18; 6:30pm Fort Wadsworth 1598 Bay St. This special concert is part of the 2022 Sounds of Summer Concert Series, and it celebrates the 50th anniversary of Gateway National Recreation Area. Featured performers are Lina Fiscardi and The Black Ties.

Sing-A-Long Laser Show

Saturday, Aug. 20; 4-5pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr.

Kids will enjoy a mix of oldschool nursery rhymes and modern kid-friendly favorites that they can sing along to.

JD & The All Stars and T-N-T with Mike Campbell

Thursday, Aug. 25; 7pm Westerleigh Park (Neal Dow and Maine Avenues) Enjoy this concert in the park, which is part of the borough president’s 2022 Sounds of Summer Concert Series.

Cooking Class for Kids: Cinnamon Buns

“ IT WILL BLOW YOUR-OPRAMH IND! ”

Monday, Aug. 29; 4-5pm The Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere 79 Howard Ave. Kids will learn how to make delicious break-away cinnamon buns.

Yum! Mexican Dance Workshop

Wednesday, Aug. 31; 6-7pm Staten Island Children’s Museum 1000 Richmond Terr.

Enjoy an interactive dance workshop with the Calpulli Mexican Dance Company, and learn about the history and cultural legacy of Mexican culture.

GET TICKETS

August 2022 | Staten Island Parent

37

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