Diamond Charter School in West Hempstead is settling into its new school year with a focus on building routines, strengthening relationships with families and creating a welcoming environment for students.
The school has been establishing a rhythm during its first weeks, with staff getting to know students academically and socially while learning more about what students and families need. With approximately 70 students enrolled across two kindergarten sections and two first-grade sections, the school is beginning the year with a small community where students and staff are quickly becoming familiar with one another.
Students have begun participating in classroom centers, while teachers are starting assessments to help determine student groupings. Outdoor recess was also introduced during the first weeks of school, giving students the opportunity to use the playground in the school’s parking lot.
Family communication has been another priority. The school uses ClassDojo as its primary communication platform, sharing photos, videos and reminders with parents. Staff have also been communicating with families by phone, text and email, particularly with parents whose children use school transportation and may not see school staff during daily arrivals and dismissals.
“I think the biggest thing that we are so excited about is really committing to our engagement with our parents and our students,” founder Mark Crusante said.
The school held a Meet the Teacher event before classes began Aug. 27, followed by its first back-to-school night. Families also participated in the school’s first parent association meeting, where parents expressed interest in leadership positions and shared ideas for creating a supportive school environment.
Looking ahead, the school has several activities planned for the fall and winter. Staff are exploring field trips to farms for pumpkin and apple picking, as well as a Friendsgiving gathering that would bring families together for a shared meal. Other planned events include Hispanic Heritage Night and a Winter Arts Festival.
“We just want to be a resource to families and students, and you know we’re starting off strong,” Principal Renee Hynes said. “We can see the potential that we have. So we’re really excited to start the school year.”
The school is particularly encouraged by students’ enthusiasm for being there. Some students arrive early for breakfast, stay for after-school activities and show excitement when they arrive by bus. Staff members have emphasized an all-hands-on-deck approach, with teachers and administrators working together to support students throughout the day.
As the school continues its first year at its new temporary location, administrators said they are focused on developing programming, strengthening family engagement and becoming a resource for students and families in the community.
“It puts a smile on our faces to know that our kids really are enjoying the learning that’s going on,” Crusante said. “It really is something great when you see sort of everybody coming up to bat for these children.”
