The Roosevelt Union Free School District has been making changes by bringing the fun back into learning for its students. Led by Robert-Wayne Harris, the district superintendent, the district has been promoting a return of interest in school.

Mr. Harris does this by making a point: “When you do the right thing, you get rewarded, and when you don’t do the right thing, you get to watch.” By holding events such as the year-end barbecue for students who have done well in the past school year, Mr. Harris makes a point to draw attention to students for doing a good job. This is in contrast to being called out for causing trouble, which happens far too often.

Even in the past year, Mr. Harris made waves in the district by starting a fancy dinner for honor roll students and their families. This has become a popular social event. Already, there are more in the works, including movie showings and pizza parties.

This change of attitude in education has made an impact on students. For example, from a high school culture known for fights, students have recently been getting along better. There are many programs that keep the students in the school rather than out on the streets. With the growing popularity of these events, a more positive attitude towards doing better has become apparent.

But it isn’t just the events that have changed the culture in the Roosevelt Union district. With the introduction of school uniforms, students are encouraged to focus more on academics rather than fashion. Art and music programs have also been built up. What was once a small school band in tattered uniforms is now 40-strong, all with new instruments and jackets carrying the Roosevelt initial.

The district is continuing to develop, and I’m very excited to hear more about how it will work to ultimately change the lives of the community. This fall, the district plans to offer advanced and enrichment classes in middle and high schools in tandem with the State University of New York College at Old Westbury. With New York being the trendsetter that it is, I’m hopeful that this new educational culture will catch on.