Alumni of The De La Salle School, now attending various high schools, take part in a college visit.

I like to refer to The De La Salle School as the school of HOPE! Approximately twenty-two years ago, The Brothers of the Christian Schools assigned Br. Thomas Casey, FSC, to explore the possibility of opening a middle school for economically challenged young men from difficult neighborhoods on Long Island who could not afford the cost of a traditional Catholic education. September 12, 2001 was the first meeting of the Feasibility Study Committee. While on that day our country was fearful and uncertain, this gathering of intrepid pioneers had faith and zeal as their hallmarks. Significantly, HOPE was the bedrock that bolstered the development of this new school—a school that came to be recognized as a place where young people rediscover HOPE!

At the school’s annual International Meal, the 8th grade class treats the whole school, with each member of the class supplying a dish that represents his family heritage.

Opened in September 2002 as a middle school in the San Miguel educational model, we are non-tuition driven—meaning that most of our operating expenses come from donor support. We embrace a faith-based environment, emphasizing strong family participation, social justice priorities that involve direct service to the poor, and extended day programs. We also provide significant support and resources for our alumni as they encounter new challenges after leaving the De La Salle School.

Twenty-one years into our history, we continue to provide a quality education for the young men entrusted to our care. Because of the rigorous academic programs that we offer and our reputation for excellence in the community, all of our recent graduates have been accepted to Catholic high schools, with significant scholarships and financial assistance. One of the more unique aspects of The De La Salle School is the Graduate Support Program. This is a commitment we make to guide and support our students through high school and college preparation. This continued educational platform not only provides De La Salle graduates with tuition assistance, it supports and encourages them through their high school experience. Services that we offer include weekly study halls, tutoring, SAT prep courses, college essay writing preparation, college tours, financial aid assistance, and mentoring opportunities. Our latest project involves arranging internships for our alumni attending college, with a business or industry related to their major.

The De La Salle School is a story of HOPE, not just for our students, but for all of us who believe in our Lasallian mission. I am very grateful to have been part of this incredible ministry. I will be retiring at the end of this school year, but have faith in our amazing De La Salle School team and in the enduring educational mission of the Christian Brothers. As a new chapter in the history of the school is written, I know that this ongoing miracle that we call The De La Salle School will continue to thrive where hearts are touched and the world is being changed one student at a time.

Angel V. and his 5th grade classmates work on their math fluency.