Messages from the Superintendent | Archives

Dear Glen Cove Families,

As we bring the 2024–2025 school year to a close, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your support, trust, and partnership throughout my time in the Glen Cove City School District.

This year’s Moving-Up and Graduation Ceremonies are more meaningful than ever—for our students, their families, and for me personally, as I prepare to retire from my role as Superintendent. It has been the greatest honor of my career to serve the Glen Cove community. I leave with immense pride in all we have accomplished together and deep appreciation for the relationships built along the way.

Whether your child is celebrating a milestone in Pre-K, second grade, fifth grade, eighth grade, or graduating from high school, each step forward is a reflection of your love and dedication, and of the collective heart of Glen Cove.

This year, we not only celebrate academic achievement but also the resilience, compassion, and strength of character our students have shown day after day. Thank you for being essential partners in creating a school community grounded in respect, inclusion, and care.

Moving Up and Graduation Ceremonies

• Gribbin School 2nd Grade – Friday, June 20 at 10:00 a.m. at Gribbin School
   

• Deasy Pre-K – Monday, June 23 at 9:00 a.m. at Finley Middle School
   

• Landing Pre-K – Monday, June 23 at 10:00 a.m. at Landing School
   

• Landing School 5th Grade – Wednesday, June 25 at 12:30 p.m. at Glen Cove High School 
  [view full details here]
   

• Connolly School 5th Grade – Thursday, June 26 at 9:15 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. at Connolly School
   

• Finley Middle School 8th Grade – Tuesday, June 24 at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Glen Cove High School 
   

• Deasy School 2nd Grade – Thursday, June 26 at 10:00 a.m. at Finley Middle School
   

• Glen Cove High School Graduation – Friday, June 27 at 6:00 p.m. at Glen Cove High School

As summer begins, I encourage families to enjoy time together—reading, exploring, and learning in the simple moments that make lasting memories.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for allowing me to be part of your children’s journeys. Glen Cove will always hold a special place in my heart.

Wishing you all a restful, joyful, and safe summer.

With gratitude and warmest wishes,

Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

April 11, 2025

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As we enjoy spring recess, I hope you’re finding time to relax and connect with family and friends.

Please visit our district website for the latest updates on student accomplishments, athletic highlights, and upcoming end-of-year events. The spring concert schedule is available here.

Our budget vote will take place on May 20, 2025. The Board of Education continues to host budget workshops, with the next meeting scheduled for April 23. If you miss a meeting, recordings are available to watch on our website—thank you to GCTV for making that possible. Budget Information

Thank you for your continued support and collaboration. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the final stretch of the school year.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

March 6, 2025

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As March begins, our schools are filled with energy and excitement! With spring just around the corner, we have many wonderful events and initiatives to look forward to.

We are proud to announce that the Portrait of a Graduate was officially adopted at our March 5th Board of Education meeting. This vision outlines the essential skills and attributes we aim to cultivate in all students, and we look forward to working together as a community to bring it to life. 

March is also a time to celebrate the importance of literacy. Our elementary schools will continue their P.A.R.P. (Pick A Reading Partner) activities, inspiring a love of reading among students. I encourage families to join in by reading together and embracing the joy of storytelling.

Our school theater productions are in full swing! In February, we enjoyed a fantastic performance of Frozen at Landing School. Be sure to catch these upcoming shows:

• Connolly School presents Frozen, brought to you by the District Arts Department and the Glen Cove Education Foundation, on March 11.
• Finley Middle School Drama Club presents The Addams Family on March 21, 22, and 23. Tickets can be purchased at the door.
• Glen Cove High School Masquers presents Chicago on March 27, 28, and 29. [Purchase tickets] The March 27th performance is free for senior citizens.

We are also excited for our annual Red and Green District Games on March 7 - a night of school spirit and friendly competition! Tickets can be purchased at the door. 

Then, on Wednesday, March 12, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, we invite you to celebrate our multicultural community with an evening of master art classes, cultural performances, workshops, and a food fair showcasing flavors from around the world. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience the richness of our diverse backgrounds and talents.

Additionally, our spring sports season is underway, and we look forward to cheering on our student-athletes as they compete. Stay tuned to our district website and social media pages for schedules and updates.

Looking ahead, our budget vote will take place on May 20, 2025. The Board of Education continues to host budget workshops, with the next meeting scheduled for March 19. If you miss any meetings, they are available to watch on our website—thank you to GCTV for making this possible.

Thank you for your continued support of our students and schools. I look forward to celebrating these events and achievements with you throughout the month.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

February 4, 2025

Dear Glen Cove Community,

We want to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students, including those attending programs at Nassau BOCES. In light of ongoing immigration enforcement issues, we remain dedicated to following established protocols regarding the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials at educational facilities and during student activities.

The Glen Cove City School District prioritizes maintaining a secure and supportive learning environment for all students. We appreciate our collaboration with Nassau BOCES in upholding these protocols and will continue working closely with the administration to ensure that our shared students remain protected and that all actions taken align with the best legal and ethical guidelines.

Our staff will follow procedures as directed by legal counsel and take appropriate action when necessary. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your attention to this important matter. 

Please visit our website for more information about available resources: https://www.glencoveschools.org/families/resources.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

December 20, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As the winter holiday season is upon us, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to you and loved ones. May this festive season bring joy, peace, good health and happiness to your homes.

We would like to remind you that all buildings, including Thayer House and Carriage House, will be closed from Monday, December 23, 2024 to Wednesday, January 1, 2025. During this period, our administrative, instructional, and clerical staff will also be observing the holidays. If you require assistance, we kindly ask you to reach out to us starting January 2, when our team will be back and ready to provide support. While you may send emails during this time, please note that responses may be delayed until after January 2. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated. 

On behalf of the entire Glen Cove City School District, I wish you all a safe, joyful, and peaceful holiday season. May the coming year bring you good health, happiness, and continued success. 

Warm regards,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

November 8, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

I am writing in hopes that I can provide some information and resources regarding a new New York State initiative known as “Regionalization” as it has been shared on social media and has caused concern to community members in a number of school districts.  The concern circulates around the idea of “sharing resources” between districts and the possible loss of local control.  According to the New York State Education Department, the Regionalization Plan presents an opportunity to enhance educational outcomes and achieve cost savings through shared services among school districts but further explains that this initiative is simply about fostering informed local decision making, partnerships and ensuring that all students have access to similar educational opportunities they need for success in school and beyond.

We strongly support and believe in maintaining local control and making sure that district resources, including programs and tax revenues, are not negatively impacted.  Here in Glen Cove we have worked tirelessly to ensure appropriate funding as well educational opportunities and will continue to support our district in this manner. 

Regionalization studies and conversations focused on the sharing of best practices among districts that can yield positive results for all schools involved facing challenges.  We, as superintendents, have advocated for the preservation of local control and governance of boards of education and will continue to do so.

Concerns have been expressed regarding the potential for one district’s resources to be prioritized over another’s in a Regionalization Plan.  It is vital to ensure that shared services and resources do not reduce one district‘s resources over another.  My conversations with members of the NYS Education Department, in collaboration with colleagues from the NYS Council of School Superintendents, the NYS School Boards Association and the NYS Small City Schools Association as well as the opportunities I have had to speak directly to the Commissioner of Education and her cabinet have yielded assurances that the local control will not be compromised.  David Frank, the Assistant Commissioner of the New York State Education Department wanted to ensure clarification and has indicated:

All school districts are required to participate in their local Regionalization conversation. Upon completing the regional plan, school districts are only required to implement activities they have agreed or consented to for their local context in the final plan.

While we are currently in the 60-day public comment period on the proposed regulation, at Regent Tilles' request, we are reviewing the regulation's language and considering modifications based on how it is being interpreted in the field. 

Link to NYSEDs web page regarding Regionalization:
https://www.nysed.gov/regionalization

NYSEDs Regionalization FAQs
https://www.nysed.gov/regionalization/frequently-asked-questions

Should you have any questions or further concern, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

September 3, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year at Glen Cove Schools! During the summer,  the administration, faculty, clerical staff, custodians, and buildings and grounds crew steadily worked to ensure the smooth opening of our buildings for the school year. We are excited to welcome new students and reunite with those returning. Our instructional staff has been busy preparing lesson plans, revising curriculum, and integrating new technology to enhance learning. We enjoyed some fun with our barbecues and popsicle events with the principals. Now, we are ready to open and have a fantastic year!

Additionally, you may notice the completion of several construction projects funded by the BOND initiative, as well as ongoing work across the District. These projects are focused on maximizing instructional opportunities as well as enhancing the overall safety, health, and welfare of all students, faculty, staff, and our entire school community.

For updates on school activities, please visit our website and follow us on social media. (Facebook and Instagram). The District uses ParentSquare, a unified communication platform accessible on computers and mobile devices, to ensure seamless engagement between parents and schools, keeping families informed about all their children’s activities and events. Sign up here. We also offer a Community Group that allows guests, such as members of the community who do not have students active in the district, but would still like to receive district notifications including emergency closures and delays. Sign up for ParentSquare Community Groups here. Please note: Current staff and parents / guardians do not need to register for the ParentSquare community groups.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in partnering with us in your children’s education. I look forward to a fantastic school year, confident that our combined efforts will lead to engaging instruction and remarkable achievements for our students.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

July 15, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Families, Faculty, and Students,

I hope this message finds you well and that you are looking forward to a relaxing and enjoyable summer season. We proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2024 from Glen Cove High School. Many of our younger students have also celebrated significant milestones as they advance from their elementary schools or Finley Middle School. All of our students are successfully progressing to the next stages of their educational journeys.

As we move into the summer, construction of new classrooms at Landing School is progressing rapidly with an anticipated completion date of December 2024. Additionally, construction of new classrooms and the elevator at Deasy School is advancing with an anticipated completion date of Summer 2025. Our Special Education Department will be relocating from Carriage House to the newly renovated connection wing between the middle school and Deasy School with signs directing parents to an area by September 2024.  The Office of Special Education will now meet IDEA standards, with access to an elevator!

Unfortunately, we continue to wait for full approval from the NY State Education Department on the high school construction plan for the science labs and cafeteria. As we cannot undertake these projects during the school year, they have been rescheduled for the summer of 2025. Please note that in order to receive proper aid, we cannot proceed without NY State approval.

Please remember to check our website in August for the district calendar which will list all of the important dates and events for the 2024-2025 school year. The first day of school will be September 3, 2024.

On behalf of our Board of Education and the entire Glen Cove School family, I wish you a wonderful, healthy, and happy summer filled with great times with family and friends and lasting memories. I look forward to seeing you again in September for another extraordinary school year.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As we near the conclusion of another academic year, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to our students, faculty, and staff for their unwavering dedication and hard work. And to our parents and community members for their continued support! I am pleased to announce the commencement of our annual spring concerts showcasing the talents of our student musicians. More details about these concerts are available on our website. In addition, we are planning several end-of-year events to honor and celebrate accomplishments of our students. These events will include academic award ceremonies, athletic banquets, moving-up ceremonies, and more. We are excited to come together as a community to celebrate the achievements of our students and we welcome you to join us in celebrating. I, once again, extend my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support and collaboration. Our students’ success is dependent on our combined efforts. I look forward to seeing you at the end-of-year events, culminating with the last week of school, where June 25th will be a half-day for elementary students K-5, followed by a one-hour day on June 26th. Further details can be found on our website. Sincerely, Dr. Maria L. Rianna Superintendent of Schools

March 27, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As April approaches, we are greeted with promising signs of spring, sunshine, and warmer days!

I encourage you to regularly visit our website for updates on our students’ achievements and upcoming activities. Looking ahead, we have exciting events lined up including the High School Masquers production of "The Little Mermaid." Purchase Tickets. Aladdin Jr. dazzled audiences this past weekend! Bravo to all involved for an outstanding performance.

I would like to take a moment to ask parents of students in grades three to eight to read the district letter regarding NYS Assessments in ELA and Mathematics, as well as Science.  Although you have received the letter from your child’s building, as is linked below, I ask that you consider the importance of such assessments for your child. The tests provide valuable insights into your child’s preparedness to progress through school and graduate equipped with the skills necessary  for success in school and beyond.  

Connolly 3-5 State Assessment Letter
Landing 3-5 State Assessment Letter
Middle School 6-8 State Assessment Letter

Additionally, Federal law mandates  that states must ensure that 95% of students in annual state assessments from each public school. The Glen Cove City School District has not been meeting this percent participation.  We ask your help in meeting the required participation rate! Schools that meet ALL six of the criteria outlined by NYSED will be cited and required to implement a participation rate improvement plan. As a result, we are working to enhance our district’s status, provide a more accurate profile of our district and use the assessment data to best support our instructional program and our students’ achievement.

I thank you for your continued partnership and look forward to seeing you at the upcoming spring events!

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

February 1, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As February begins, exciting events are unfolding in our schools. I encourage you to mark your calendars for the upcoming performances that promise to captivate and entertain.

Firstly, make sure to catch the enchanting rendition of Jungle Book Kids at Landing School on February 1. Finley Middle School will be hosting a presentation of Aladdin in March and the High School is set to stage a spectacular performance of The Little Mermaid in April. [Purchase your tickets here.] The vibrant enthusiasm displayed by our students assures that all of these shows will be truly unforgettable experiences for everyone involved.

As we navigate through February, our schools are abuzz with various activities and achievements. Visit our website for the latest news, including student accomplishments, spelling bees, and celebrations of the Lunar New Year.

Our elementary schools are starting their Read-a-Thons, and P.A.R.P. is coming up soon. Remember to mark your calendars for Community Reader Day, a cherished tradition where I'm excited to visit our elementary schools as a guest reader.

Our PTA Council 2024 Scholarship Dinner and Diamond Club Induction promises a night of celebration and recognition.

For those unable to attend Board of Education meetings in person, you can view them via Livestream or access recordings on our website.

GCTV Live Stream

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to sharing in the excitement of these upcoming events with our Glen Cove community.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

January 18, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Families,

We wanted to inform you that a Superintendent's Conference day has been added to the district calendar on February 13, 2024. As a result, there will be no school for students on that day.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

January 13, 2024

Dear Glen Cove Community,

I would like to remind students, parents, and guardians that all district schools will be closed on Monday, January 15, 2024 as we observe and celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. King's dedicated life was focused on eradicating racism and poverty throughout our nation. His advocacy for change through non-violence played a pivotal role in propelling significant advancements towards equity in the United States. As we reflect on his life, we acknowledge the considerable progress made in the name of civil rights, economic justice, and education.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to remain aware of the persisting challenges. In recent years, we have encountered new obstacles in our ongoing pursuit of racial justice. Dr. King emphasized that the mission of education is to cultivate intelligence with character.

Within the Glen Cove City School District, we are steadfast in our commitment to foster an educational environment that is inclusive and supportive of all our students. Our programs are designed to cater to the diverse needs of each student, meeting them at their individual levels of requirement. As a district, we aspire to empower all our young individuals with the qualities, character, and skills necessary for critical and effective thinking, both as individuals and as part of a collective community.

On this day dedicated to the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I urge each of us to honor his legacy by addressing any injustice we encounter and persistently working towards fostering inclusiveness and compassion for all.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

December 22, 2023

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As the holiday season is upon us, we would like to extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones. May this festive season bring joy, peace, good health and happiness to your homes.

We would like to remind you that all buildings, including Thayer House and Carriage House, will be closed from Monday, December 25, 2023 to Monday, January 1, 2024. During this period, our administrative, instructional, and clerical staff will also be observing the holidays. If you require assistance, we kindly ask you to reach out to us starting January 2, when our team will be back and ready to provide support. While you may send emails during this time, please note that responses may be delayed until after January 2.

Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated. Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy and a New Year that brings health and happiness!

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

November 21, 2023

Dear Glen Cove Community,

As we approach the Thanksgiving season, I am reminded of the incredible journey we are committed to each year, the support and education of our children. Time seems to have flown by, and now we find ourselves immersed in the joyous spirit of the holidays. On behalf of the Board of Education, as well as my esteemed colleagues in central administration, I extend our warmest wishes for a safe and joy-filled Thanksgiving to each and every one of you.

This season prompts us to pause and express gratitude for the many achievements that shape our community. Our collective success is owed to the unwavering dedication of our students, faculty, parents, and Glen Cove community members. Together, we embody the resilience and commitment that defines our school district.

Glen Cove has long been a nurturing home for students of diverse backgrounds, fostering an environment where individuals of all ages, abilities, ethnicities, socio-economic levels, religions, and genders thrive. It is a close-knit community that attracts families from various walks of life, united by a shared commitment to looking out for and caring for one another. The pride we take in our children and their futures is evident in the daily dedication and support of our devoted staff.

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us also reflect on the people and aspects of our lives that fill us with gratitude. This is a time to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate or in need, fostering the spirit of generosity that also defines our community.

Personally, I am grateful for the students who grace our schools with their eagerness to learn each day and the remarkable efforts they contribute. The work of our teachers, staff, and administration, driven by passion and dedication, has propelled our district to new heights. I extend my deepest appreciation to the parents whose unwavering support has helped build an excellent community for our students, maintaining trust and confidence in our mission.

As we approach the Thanksgiving break, I wish you and your families a season filled with health, happiness, and safety.

Warm regards,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

October 11, 2023

Dear Glen Cove Families,

We are profoundly dismayed and saddened by the tragic attacks that have occurred in Israel. Many members of our community have loved ones in the region and are understandably worried about their safety and well-being.

As these events continue to unfold, our children can be affected by the news and discussions they encounter. During such challenging times, they seek reassurance and understanding. It becomes essential for us to come together as one school community, assisting our students in comprehending these difficult events, supporting those affected, and demonstrating how to extend a helping hand to those in need, beyond themselves.

Please be aware that our counselors and mental health teams are here to provide support for any students and families facing challenges during this trying period. Feel free to contact your principal or a member of your school's mental health team directly.

The below resources from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network may be helpful in having conversations with your children:

Talking to Children about War

Talking to Children: When Scary Things Happen

Talking to Teens: When Scary Things Happen

Creating Supportive Environments: When Scary Things Happen

Assisting Parents/Caregivers in Coping with Collective Trauma

Furthermore, I strongly urge you to monitor your child's social media usage. In this digital age, extremely violent and graphic images and videos often find their way onto popular platforms like Snapchat, Tiktok, Twitter (X), and Instagram.

As a resilient and compassionate community, we will come together to offer support and aid to those in need.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Parents and Community Members,

As we review each situation for the safety of our students and staff, we are modifying our procedures at Glen Cove High School to ensure any emergencies after the end of the regular school day are never met with any hindrances which may cause a delay in response time.

A number of years ago, we noticed that people were using our parking lot, from Walnut Road to and from Dosoris Lane as a shortcut/cut-through to either road. As a result, we witnessed cars speeding and avoiding speed bumps, causing dangerous situations as students and/or staff walked to their cars. As a result, and after consulting with EMS, Fire and Police, the back gate was closed after the school day to avoid unnecessary traffic.

After reviewing our protocol following a recent incident, and to ensure we will continue to stop vehicles from using the lot as a cut-through, the back gate at Glen Cove High School will have security staff positioned at the gate during after school activities each day, such as rehearsals, practices and sporting events. Should an emergency vehicle need to be called, the security staff member will have a radio notifying them of the call and will immediately open the gate.

We continue to ask for the cooperation of all parents and community members in order to maintain a safe campus for our students and staff. We also continue to work with Glen Cove Police as well as Homeland Security to enhance our safety measures.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools

September 2023

Dear Glen Cove Community,

Welcome to the official opening of the 2023-2024 school year at Glen Cove Schools! Teachers and staff have been preparing their classrooms and the excitement of the new year is filling our buildings with great enthusiasm and #GCPride!

As we open our doors to the new school year, you will see a myriad of improvements to our facilities underway. The Energy Performance project has made significant progress upgrading electrical components, resulting in new lighting and ceilings in multiple buildings. Our BOND projects are fully underway as well! At the high school, our athletic field and tennis courts are undergoing a complete make-over and our students will be playing on new surfaces for years to come! New lockers also will be installed and new doors will be replaced with safer locking systems throughout the district. Much of this work will occur after the school day to ensure no interruption to instruction. All workers on the premises are vetted as well, as security continues to be our number one concern.

Deasy and Landing extensions have been progressing throughout the summer and will continue through the school year. Again, working with our contractors, safety precautions and regulations are being followed and procedures have been put in place to assure a safe environment for all students and staff.

Parents, please refer to your child’s building principal, specifically at the high school, middle school, Deasy and Landing, regarding any changes to parking, arrival and dismissal procedures as we work together to ensure procedures that have been altered are clearly communicated and adhered to during this time. Our cooperative partnership has always been a tremendous gift to our district and we will be counting on you for additional assistance and understanding during this time.

For progress on our construction projects, please visit our Facilities page at https://www.glencoveschools.org/district1/central-office/facilities. There you will find weekly progress, including photos and updates. Again, thank you for your continued support and confidence in working with your children. I look forward to a great school year, knowing that the commitment of all our staff, coupled with the support of parents and community, will result in engaging instruction and extraordinary achievements for our students.

Sincerely,
Dr. Maria L. Rianna
Superintendent of Schools