Reimagining Education for THE ROCKAWAYS
Together, we can give our kids the education they deserve.
We’re on a mission to create a school that truly reflects the values and needs of the Rockaways—a community-driven school that empowers our children with a top-tier education rooted in environmental stewardship, outdoor education, dual-language learning, and social-emotional growth through the arts. We aim to fill the education gaps in the Rockaways including special education, emotional and behavioral support, and water safety education. But we can't do it without you. This is more than just a school; it’s a community effort for an improved educational experience in the Rockaways that works for every child, every family.
Your input, your ideas, support and your help are crucial in bringing a school environment that truly supports our kids to life. Together, we will shape an educational experience that prepares our kids for a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow. Join us as we work bring a school that truly reflects the values and needs of our vibrant community to the Rockaways.
Our goals
We have a lofty goal of bringing a new school with the highest quality academics—supported by environmental stewardship, outdoor education, dual-language learning, and social-emotional growth through the arts—in a new building that will be a model for sustainability and a powerful teaching tool in itself.
While working towards this goal, we also aim to support existing schools in the Rockaways by building relationships with local school and community leaders and acting as a community advocate, becoming a voice for Rockaway's families.
How can you help?
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
One of the most effective ways to help bring about change in the Rockaways is by providing us with letters of support that we will append to our proposal.
Fill out the survey
Your voice matters! We need your input to change the education landscape in the Rockaways. The community is the heart of this project, and together, we can create a school that reflects our values, needs, and hopes for the future.
COME TO MEETINGS
Our community meetings are a forum to voice your concerns and learn more about our efforts, what we are trying to accomplish and how we are going to accomplish it.
Also, find Zoom links to join meetings virtually.
STAY INFORMED
We have done a vast amount of research to develop our vision. Learn more about environmental stewardship, outdoor education, dual-language learning, and social-emotional growth through the arts. Also, keep up-to-date on what's important to know about the education climate, especially in the Rockaways.
Meet the Organizers
Corinne sommer
Corinne has a background in construction management with a masters in renewable energy and sustainability. She is an active member of Surfrider and spends most of her time advocating for the planet and being a mom.
Corinne is also an owner of the Rockaplay Social Club and is truly invested in making the Rockaway a successful, thriving community.
VANESSA COCKS
Vanessa, an LMSW, specializes in clinical social work with children and adolescents. With a background in arts and design, she integrates creativity into her therapeutic practice and brings the same imaginative approach to parenting her spirited toddler.
A native New Yorker and longtime Rockaway resident, Vanessa is deeply committed to community advocacy and grassroots organizing, working to create meaningful change in the place she calls home.
CRISTINE ESGUERRA
CC is a creative leader who works on branding, strategy, and design for mission-driven organizations including Boys & Girls Clubs of America, American Cancer Society and Arthritis Foundation.
Raising her toddler on our peninsula is just one of the many reason she wants to see Rockaway continue to thrive.
AMIRA BEATTY
Amira, M.S. Ed., is a dedicated Special Education Provider, Education Consultant, and Community Advocate with over 29 years experience. She has worked extensively with families and children across diverse educational settings.
Since moving to Rockaway in 1997, her mission has been to bring essential family services to the Rockaways and be a voice for those who feel unheard.
Contact Us