Riverdale Schools Unveil New Auditorium in Brownsville Today
UPDATE: Riverdale Avenue Community School (RACS) and Riverdale Avenue Middle School (RAMS) have just opened a brand-new auditorium in Brownsville, marking a significant advancement in educational resources and community engagement. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Friday, December 12, 2023, bringing together students, families, educators, and local officials to celebrate this vital addition to the historic 104-year-old campus.
Attending the event was New York State Senator Roxanne J. Persaud, who played a crucial role in securing the capital funding for this project. She was joined by Assemblywoman Latrice Walker, who actively participated in a special performance, underscoring the auditorium’s importance as a hub for arts and community connection.
This new facility addresses a long-standing need for a central space dedicated to student performances, arts programming, and community events. With its opening, RACS and RAMS expand opportunities for student voice and creative expression, vital for fostering a vibrant school culture.
Principal Arabelle Pembroke stated, “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 highlights the emotional impact of the new auditorium, designed not only for academic enrichment but also for nurturing the social and emotional well-being of students.
The auditorium will host a variety of events, including family gatherings and school-wide celebrations, reinforcing the schools’ role as anchors in the Brownsville community. The initiative is supported by Partnership with Children, an organization dedicated to enhancing the emotional, social, and cognitive skills of children in New York City. Currently, they serve over 20,000 children and families across 40 public schools.
Through trauma-informed mental health counseling, community programming, and healing-centered arts education, Partnership with Children addresses the specific needs of students growing up in poverty, further enriching the educational experience at RACS and RAMS.
This development is not just about a building; it’s about creating a shared space where students, families, and the wider community can come together to celebrate and connect. The new auditorium is poised to become a cornerstone for arts education and community-centered programming in Brownsville.
As the school year progresses, all eyes will be on how this new facility transforms student engagement and community interaction. Stay tuned for upcoming events and performances that will showcase the talents and creativity of the students in this vibrant new space.
