The mission of the Rockville Centre Schools Music and Performing Arts Programs is to provide a comprehensive study through creating, performing, and responding to music. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to make the performing arts an integral part of their daily lives. Our goal is to inspire every student to become a creative and innovative thinker, fostering artistic development, critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and lifelong learning.

According to the National Association for Music Education, University admissions officers clearly state that students who participate in arts classes through high school have an advantage over students who do not when applying for high-end schools.   Having music on a student’s transcript all through high school shows that a student has developed skills in group work, multi-tasking, spatial reasoning, mathematics, leadership, community spirit, literacy, and expression. These types of skills cannot be found all together in any other class.

Beginning with kindergarten general music, we offer a diverse range of educational experiences for students at all levels. Many students enroll in our numerous classroom music offerings and participate in the district's various bands, orchestras, and choirs, continuing their musical journey throughout elementary, middle, and high school.

Our high school curriculum also includes classes in Music Technology, Music Theory, Theater Arts, Play Production, IB Music, and IB Theater.

The SSHS Drama Guild mounts a fully-stage drama production each fall and our annual musical production each spring.  Our high school students can seek application for membership in our local chapter of the National Tri-M Music Honor Society where they perform service to our school district, and the community at large.

The Rockville Centre School District offers dynamic and comprehensive art programs designed to nurture creativity, innovation, and expression in students from elementary through high school. Our program aims to provide a well-rounded education that prepares students for future success in a rapidly evolving world.

Starting in elementary school, students receive foundational art instruction, focusing on basic techniques, creativity, and self-expression. This early exposure fosters a love for visual art and builds essential skills for future learning.

In middle school, the program expands to include additional artistic media in grades 6 and 7, as well as digital photography and Studio in Art. Students explore the fundamentals of photography, learning about composition, lighting, and digital editing techniques. The Studio in Art course covers various art media and techniques, helping students develop a broad skill set in visual arts.

At the high school level, the program offers advanced courses in digital photography, sculpture and ceramics, painting and drawing, 3D modeling, and IB Art. The digital photography course delves deeper into advanced techniques and digital editing tools. In sculpture and ceramics, students explore three-dimensional art forms, working with various materials to create sculptures and ceramic pieces. The painting and drawing course focuses on traditional and contemporary techniques, encouraging students to develop their unique artistic style. The 3D modeling course teaches students to create three-dimensional models using advanced software, preparing them for careers in design, animation, and engineering. As part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, the IB Art course challenges students to develop their artistic skills and engage in critical analysis and research in the visual arts.

Our Visual Arts program provides students with diverse opportunities to explore their interests, develop new skills, and prepare for future academic and career pursuits. Through a combination of hands-on learning, creative expression, and technical training, we strive to inspire our students to become innovative thinkers and lifelong learners.

SSHS Senior Elena Mingorance was chosen to receive a Merit Award for Media Arts in the Long Island Scholar-Artist program for the 2024-2025 school year. This award acknowledges her outstanding artistic talents and academic achievements. Congratulations, Elena!

At South Side Middle School, our Family and Consumer Science (FACS) program is designed to equip students with essential life skills and practical knowledge.  Our comprehensive program emphasizes personal development, responsible citizenship, and career readiness, preparing students to navigate various aspects of their personal and professional lives effectively.

The FACS curriculum at South Side Middle School includes a wide range of topics that provide students with a thorough understanding of family and consumer sciences. Key areas of focus include:

Nutrition and Wellness: Students learn about the principles of healthy eating, meal planning, and the importance of physical activity. They gain hands-on experience in preparing nutritious meals and understanding the impact of diet on overall health.

Personal Finance: This component covers essential financial literacy skills, such as budgeting, saving, and managing money. Students are introduced to the basics of banking, credit, and financial planning, empowering them to make informed financial decisions.

Textiles and Clothing: This area teaches students about fabric types, clothing construction, and basic sewing skills. Students engage in practical projects that enhance their understanding of textile care and garment creation.

Career Exploration and Readiness: Students investigate various career options and learn about the skills required for different professions. This exploration helps them make informed decisions about their future education and career paths.

Interpersonal Skills and Relationships: The program emphasizes the development of effective communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork skills. Students learn the importance of building positive relationships at home, school, and in the workplace.

Our FACS program often works closely with our MS Technology teachers to create dynamic interdisciplinary projects such as custom made charcuterie boards and corn hole games!