Garden City High School senior visits Homestead School for special kindergarten presentation
On June 18, Garden City High School senior Evan Rom visited Ms. Kim Roffman’s kindergarten class in order to read a book in honor of his mother, Mrs. Anita Rom, who was celebrating her turn as Star of the Week. Mrs. Rom, a teacher aide at Homestead School, had a special connection to this tradition—12 years ago, she read to Evan’s kindergarten class when he was a student and Star of the Week at Hemlock School.
As part of the kindergarten curriculum, each student is celebrated as the Star of the Week at some point during the school year. During their designated week, a parent or family member is invited to visit the classroom and read aloud. After every student had a chance to be Star of the Week, the opportunity extended to teachers and teacher aides. For her turn, Mrs. Rom invited her son Evan, a member of the Garden City High School Class of 2025, to take the lead.
Evan read “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss—a fitting choice as he prepares to begin his next chapter studying aviation at the University of Waterloo. He also brought his yearbook to share with the students, pointing out his senior portrait, the seniors’ quotes, and pictures of him as a member of the school’s varsity soccer and tennis teams. To accompany the soccer photos, Evan also showed his New York State Championship ring, using it as an example to talk about the value—and rewards—of hard work, dedication and teamwork in achieving your goals.
“This was a perfect full-circle moment and such a joyful role reversal, 12 years later,” said Mrs. Rom. “We will carry many fond memories of our years in the district as Evan graduates. It was so special to have him read to my class, just as I once read to his.”
The visit captured the full spirit of the Garden City educational journey—celebrating tradition, growth and the lasting bonds formed throughout the years.
