UPDATE: The Riverdale Avenue Community School (RACS) and Riverdale Avenue Middle School (RAMS) have officially opened a state-of-the-art auditorium in Brownsville, NY, on December 12, 2023. This new facility marks a significant investment in the educational and creative future of the historic campus, which has served the community for over 100 years.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together students, families, educators, and community partners, creating an atmosphere of celebration and hope. New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, who secured vital funding for the project, was present to inaugurate the space officially. Also attending was Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, representing Assembly District 55, who participated in a special performance, emphasizing the auditorium’s importance as a hub for arts and community connection.
Principal Arabelle Pembroke expressed the significance of the new facility, stating, “Fresh, new and up-to-date spaces in school are important because they send a message to students that they are cared for and valued.” This sentiment resonates deeply within a community where access to quality educational resources is crucial.
The auditorium will serve as a central venue for student performances, arts programs, family gatherings, and community events, addressing a long-standing need on campus. School leaders highlight that this expansion significantly enhances opportunities for student engagement and creative expression.
Founded in 1908, Partnership with Children works tirelessly to strengthen the emotional, social, and cognitive skills of over 20,000 children and families across 40 New York City public schools. By embedding licensed clinical social workers and teaching artists within schools, they provide trauma-informed mental health counseling and community-based programming, ensuring that the needs of students are met holistically.
The addition of the new auditorium broadens the scope of arts education and community-centered programming in Brownsville, creating a shared space where students, families, and the broader community can gather, celebrate, and connect. As RACS and RAMS continue to serve as anchors in the Brownsville community, this development is poised to significantly impact school culture and community engagement.
What’s Next: Community leaders and educators are expected to announce upcoming events and programming opportunities that will utilize the new auditorium, fostering a vibrant culture of creativity and collaboration in Brownsville. The excitement surrounding the opening signifies a renewed commitment to student voice and engagement, with the community eagerly anticipating the positive changes this facility will bring.
Stay tuned for more updates on how this new space will transform educational experiences and community interactions in Brownsville.