KSD Spring e-Newsletter

Our elementary school students participated in a week-long spirited celebration to commemorate their hard work and academic dedication over the past 100 days. Celebration events included themed dress down days, prizes, raffles, and commemorative activities.

📚Kearny elementary schools embraced the spirit of reading through a host of activities designed to promote literacy in our schools for Read Across America Week. Themed dress down days at Franklin included Hats off to Reading, Live Literature, and Reading Helps Us Grow. We built a community of readers at each of our elementary schools with guest readers, held a Dr. Seuss birthday event at Roosevelt School, welcomed special guest stars and reading buddies at Garfield, and held the first-ever Masked Reader event, which was a huge hit with Schuyler students. We brought literature to life in a fun way with a Book Character Potato Contest at Washington School and literacy themed Bingo.

These events brought our students together in literary unity, we bonded and made friends through reading, and together we discovered the power of words. To conclude the week, the Arlington Women's Club supported our school libraries with book donations. Special thanks to our media specialists: Ms. Bird, Ms. Curry, and Mrs. Melker for coordinating these inventive activities and spreading the joy of reading to our youngest learners.

Franklin School's recent Boosterthon Fun Run fundraiser was more than just a race—it was a testament to inclusivity and community spirit. Thanks to our dedicated teachers, every student felt empowered to participate after engaging with the World Changer Workshop materials.

On race day, the school buzzed with excitement as parent volunteers marked laps and cheered on participants. Each class, proudly displaying their custom designed and decorated team flags, ran with determination, while parents watched from the bleachers, filled with pride.

The event showcased the values that define Franklin School: unity, empowerment, and camaraderie. From kindergarteners to sixth graders, every participant played a vital role in making the Fun Run a success. As the cheers faded and the last laps were completed, it was evident that Franklin School isn't just a place of learning—it's a community where every step taken has the power to make a difference.

On Friday, April 26th, Garfield Students took flight at the 2024 Fun Run! Heartfelt gratitude to our PTA volunteers, dedicated teachers, and generous donors, including Kearny FMBA, Midtown Pharmacy, Kearny Wellness Center, Effective Alarm Systems, Moran Towing, Spanish Pavilion, Cali Carting, Thiele-Reid Funeral Home, Bone-Appetite Barkery, and Sandra's Hair Salon.

Students gathered together by class to run laps for a cause. Volunteers marked off each lap the kids completed as they enjoyed the sunshine and each other's company in the spirit of wellness.

Special thanks to Ms. Seeley and Ms. Concepcion for their outstanding organization. With perfect weather, joyful students, and unforgettable moments, this event will be cherished for years to come!

At Lincoln Middle School, we nurture future leaders. The Optimist International Oratorical Contest provided a showcase of talent as students presented their essays to a captivated audience of staff, students, and parents. Well done to all our participants and our supportive administration! A special thank you to the local Kearny Optimist Club and to Mr. Furino for organizing this inspiring event.

Maisie Kelly, our gold winner, is set to represent Lincoln Middle School at the district level in Pennsylvania. A hearty congratulations to Ester Fernandez, our silver winner, and Ester Cerqueira, who placed third. We're proud of your hard work and the example you set for us all.

Congratulations to our Bronze winners who showcased their public speaking skills: Amelia Murray, Charli Valente, Derek Martinez, Mena Abdelaziz, Jessica Arenas, Zoe Boyd Azcona, Carlie Vega, Phaedra Rodrigues, and Elizabeth Gomez Gonzalez. Your hard work and dedication make us proud every day.

On April 25th, Lincoln Middle School proudly hosted the first-ever West Hudson Middle School Poetry Slam, bringing together students from Kearny, Harrison, and Belleville for an evening celebrating the art of verse! Over 75 students from Lincoln Middle School took the stage in celebration of poetry, joined by an impressive 25 students from Belleville and Harrison.

The school was transformed into the inviting Lincoln Lounge for the occasion, welcoming more than 200 parents and community members who came out to support the young poets. Congratulations to all the participants for their contributions to a memorable event!

The American Dream was brought to life at Kearny High School, which was honored to host alumni guest speakers from Univision and JP Morgan Chase. Univision News Anchor Noticias Jonathan Inoa, along with Univision Senior Director of Community Empowerment Bill Tipacti (KHS '90) and JP Morgan Chase Executive Director Marcos Tipacti (KHS '93) were introduced by Superintendent Encarnacao and Principal Brack.

The trio shared stories of their industrious journeys and insights about perseverance, goal setting, and turning aspirations into achievements. Bill Tipacti and Jonathan Inoa spoke of overcoming obstacles, the electric feeling of their first broadcasts, embracing challenges and taking on naysayers to "prove them wrong" by being the best fit for the Director's seat. Marcos Tipacti shared his own laser-focused journey through the financial world, and breaking the mold through diversity and inclusion. Their stories resonated with the students, and a true Kearny connection was formed.

Throughout the duration of two class meetings, Sophomores and Juniors eagerly engaged with our esteemed guests, seizing the opportunity to ask thought-provoking questions, exchange personal anecdotes, and absorb invaluable wisdom. The interactive sessions facilitated a dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences, empowering students to glean firsthand insights into the professional trajectories of our visitors. Above all, students emerged from the experience with a profound understanding that the journey to success is paved with continuous learning, unwavering determination, and a steadfast commitment to realizing one's dreams.

Thank you to Bill Tipacti, Marcos Tipacti, and Jonathan Inoa for visiting our students and sharing your own inspiring stories. A recap of the visit was broadcasted on Univision's news program, which can be seen by clicking on the link below.

In the spirit of promoting health and positivity, the Kearny School District's Wellness initiative continued to sparked joy and well-being throughout our community. "Elementary Wellness Week" encouraged a journey of mindfulness, camaraderie, and healthy habits that left smiles on the faces of students, staff, and parents alike.

Throughout the week, each day was infused with opportunities to pause, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves. Students, staff and parents were urged to “Take a Minute for Mindfulness" by participating in simple stretching exercises designed to find balance and calm amidst the hectic pace of daily life.

Our school community came together in delightful ways, spreading positivity with events like "Chalk the Walk," where colorful messages of encouragement adorned our paths, and the creation of a "Wall of Recognition" filled with uplifting affirmations.

Guided by the wisdom of health experts, our students were treated to engaging assemblies sponsored by Kessler Institute and Partners in Prevention. These sessions reinforced the importance of prioritizing mental health, making sound decisions, and warning against the dangers of substance abuse.

A highlight of the week was the involvement of Kearny High School's Medical and Dental Assisting students, who took the time to share their knowledge with our youngest learners. Through interactive mini-lessons, Kindergarten students were introduced to the joys of dental health and hygiene in a fun and engaging way.

Classes savored the fresh air and sunshine with a schoolwide “Walk the Block”, embracing the springtime spirit with an opportunity to stretch their legs and soak in the beauty of the season.

As Elementary Wellness Week came to a close, the echoes of laughter, friendship, and rejuvenation lingered in the air. Here's to many more moments of wellness, unity, and joy as we continue to prioritize the health and happiness of our Kearny community.

Lincoln Middle School welcomed our community and local businesses to revel in wellness at their first annual Wellness Fair. Through partnerships from the PTA and Walmart, our Kearny families toured vendor booths and interacted with wellness experts. We discovered wellness opportunities, mindfulness tips, resources to combat substance abuse, as well as opportunities for student leadership. Among our families and staff, Mayor Carole Jeane Doyle and the local PBA stopped by to visit our vendors and extend well wishes to our student clubs.

On April 12th, Franklin School Students proudly wore blue in celebration of Autism Acceptance Day and commemorated the dedication of the Michelle Sammaro Memorial Playground, which was built thanks to tireless fundraising efforts by Franklin School teachers Heather Klein and Cathy Padinha.

Sammaro was the first ABA teacher in the district when the program became available in 2017 and set a precedent for dedication to the student population, as she strove to provide a comfortable and safe learning environment for her classes. As the need for more classes grew, the district expanded the program and welcomed Klein and Padinha. In 2018, Sammaro fell ill and her guidance, support, and daily morning talks have been greatly missed ever since.

To honor her memory and hold true to the promise that “she would always be there for the children,” Klein and Padinha began fundraising efforts to build the playground. To lay the foundation for fundraising opportunities, Klein and Padinha sought community support by commissioning local businesses, including the Kearny Elks, Unico, the Women’s Club, and other places of employment in South Kearny. To gain awareness of these fundraising opportunities, the women also sold t-shirts, bracelets, coupon books and held dress down days. In gratitude for all the stakeholders who participated in lending a hand to build this playground, Sammaro’s legacy continues and the children now have a sensory-friendly place to play, bond, and build friendships for years to come.

During the dedication, Principal Cali and ABA instructor Heather Klein shared heartfelt speeches, and the Sammaro family was present for the ceremonious ribbon cutting ceremony, proudly honoring their mother's dreams. Joined by Kearny City Council members Marytrine DeCastro,

Gerald Ficeto, George Zapata, and Mayor Carole Jean Doyle, as well as Board of Education Member Sebastian Viscuso, and our Central Office Administration, the event symbolized unity and support for our special education students. This playground will be a cherished space of inclusivity and joy for our Franklin School community.

Students and families learned together during enjoyable Family Engagement events. K-2 students and families listened to the Dr. Seuss book, There is No Place Like Space! Following that, they worked together to complete a rhyming game scavenger hunt. Rhyming words were placed on spaceships around the room; as the families found each word, they were brought to their designated ‘planet.’ Meanwhile, students and families in grades 3-6 listened to the story "Stargazers" by Gail Gibbons. Afterwards, they played a vocabulary matching memory game from words that they heard in the story before working together to write sentences with each of the words.

All of the students and families completed a Social Emotional Learning Activity by discussing things that they love about themselves or someone in their family. They made an Earth hot air balloon craft with their favorite characteristics displayed. It was lovely to see our families work together and connect through academic activities.

Our preschoolers, along with their families, gathered for an evening of celebration and engagement. The event aimed to foster a sense of community and provide an opportunity for families to connect with one another. We were delighted to see so many families in attendance creating lasting memories with their children.

The Spring Fling Family Engagement Night featured a variety of activities and craft stations that catered to different interests and age groups. From face painting to a scavenger hunt, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The craft stations allowed children and their families to unleash their creativity and make beautiful spring-themed crafts together.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity for families to connect with one another. Parents had the chance to meet and engage in conversations, while children formed new friendships and played together. It was heartwarming to witness the strong sense of community that was fostered during the event.

Congratulations to Mr. Conde and the KHS Concert Band for winning Top Honors at the Hudson County Teen Art Festival at NJCU. Next is the States!

The band's performance was stellar and magical. The students radiated a confidence and passion that permeated through to the audience. Mr. Conde is an outstanding conductor and with him on the podium, the performance was a conversation with the musicians and audience. He showed true passion for each score as his students followed his lead.

Under the tutelage of Mr. Conde, the students' hard work, perseverance and countless hours of dedication made the Top Honor Award that much more rewarding. Special thanks to Mr. Pamaar for working with percussionists and assisting them to reach such a high level of play.

Moreover, this is the first Top Honor Award for KHS Concert Band at Teen Arts. What an amazing accomplishment!

Congratulations to Ms. Vella and her outstanding dancers! At the Hudson County Teen Art Festival at NJCU, Ms. Vella's students received a Judges Award for their group dance "Theresa".

Several broadcasting students in Ryan Miller's Art of TV and Film Classes have been working on Prom Com since January. They met after school for several weeks to brainstorm the concept, write the script, and plan the production. In March, the students were afforded an incredible opportunity to film throughout the school day, capturing footage and character testimonials around the building. After filming concluded, the students continued their diligence in post-production by editing the project together.

Prom Com is a 5 minute mockumentary that has been entered into the Hudson County Teen Arts short film contest as well as the local Montclair Emerging Filmmakers Competition, which receives several hundred submissions yearly.

Student director Jasmine Viera's incredible vision was brought to life with the support of an impeccable lead cinematographer: Aurora Latona. The cast was led by Sabrina Bian who hilariously played the main role, a student who hires a film crew as she attempts to direct a school musical about prom in less than ideal circumstances. The rest of the cast and crew that rounded out the comedy includes Gia Kaminski, Victoria Kulikowski, Jonathan Desimon, Anna Yezzi, Sara Arias, Angie Vidal, Zai Gomez, Kaira Vazquez, Bolivar Suero, Mauricio Gomez, and Mathieu Malary.

While Miller contributed by organizing the meetings, the students wrote, filmed, and produced the original short film entirely by themselves. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and finished product.

After learning the results of the respective competitions, stay tuned for a special screening to celebrate the students' hard work!

Preschoolers at Schuyler School have been actively engaged in a tree study, where they have been learning about the importance of trees in our environment. They have explored different types of trees, their parts, and the role they play in providing us with clean air, shade, and habitats for animals. The children have also learned about the importance of taking care of trees and how they can contribute to a greener future.

Ms. Hoeller's, Mrs. DeRay's, Ms. Avino's, Ms. Twesten's and Mrs. Ferreira's Pre-K classes completed their Tree Study in the Fall. As a Wow Experience, pre-K parent Brandon Lauer and the Kearny DPW volunteered to plant a tree. Flora Encarnacao, our Superintendent, read A Tree is Nice to our enthusiastically engaged preschoolers. Afterwards, Mr. Lauer and the other members of the DPW talked about the parts of a tree, a tree jacket that waters the tree, and how a tree grows. In addition to decorating tree-themed celebratory headpieces worn with pride for the occasion, the students painted river rocks and placed their rocks around the tree. We're grateful to be able to watch this tree grow as our students move through their time here at Schuyler school.

Thank you to Principal Valerie Iacono for planning and organizing the event. We'd also like to thank everyone who attended and made this such a special occasion:

Branden Lauer and Kearny DPW team

Mayor Carol Jean Doyle

Council Member Marytrine De Castro

Council Member Gerald Ficeto

Council Member Stathis Theodoropoulos

Flora Encarnacao- Superintendent

Aliki Bieltz-Assistant Superintendent

Jenny Brodsky- District Supervisor of Pre-K and Kindergarten

Jeanine Jensen- PIRT

Stephanie Pareja- Master Teacher

Grace DiGangi-Art

Katia Lagos

Deanne Bahring

Sara Ochoa

Sharon Murphy

Carmen Villota

Nora Naciri

Carla Gaffney

Under the direction of Milly Gonzalez, The Addams Family came together in a hilariously spooky production by our KHS students. Talented and joyful, the energy was palpable as the audience laughed along to this creepy, cooky classic. This was also full circle moment for Gonzalez, as her vision finally came to life after a four year journey with the production. The original cast of the 2020 production of The Addams Family attended the show on Saturday, March 16 to support the 2024 cast and surprise Ms. Gonzalez. It was a bittersweet moment for the cast of 2020 to see the production, as the doors of KHS closed one week prior to their showtime.

During the show, the 2020 cast jumped in and helped with the concession stand and door sales. At the end of the show, the 2020 and 2024 cast gathered on the stage for a photo op, standing next to the character they were supposed to portray. The evening was extremely emotional for all.

When talking with the 2020 cast, they said, "Perhaps it was meant to be that we couldn't put on the play, as this cast blew it out of the water! They are incredible and each actor is spot on with their character!" This night gave closure for the 2020 cast to see the production come to life, and an opportunity to meet up with their own "Addams Family."

Throughout March, students engaged in a friendly bracket style competition, battling it out in weekly iReady lessons to advance through the brackets and come out on top. It was more than just math—it was a chance for students to showcase their skills, challenge themselves, and bond with classmates in a fun, educational setting.

Special thanks to Instructional Math and Science Coach Jayme Tchalabi for organizing this spirited competition. All of our participants dove into their iReady lessons with enthusiasm, sharpening their math proficiency while enjoying the thrill of the tilt. Congratulations to all of our budding mathematicians for their dedication and hard work—it's clear that with every equation solved, they're one step closer to greatness!

Roosevelt school PTA proudly sponsored the annual Bagels and Bagpipes event. Students dressed in green and enjoyed a bagel breakfast while a bagpiper played through the halls. Meanwhile, Ms. Figueroa visited classrooms, invoking valuable lessons about kindness, friendship and a positive spirit. Thank you to our PTA, Ms. Figueroa, and the Roosevelt faculty for a memorable St. Paddy's day season!

Ms. Von coordinated a school wide t-shirt sale benefitting Down Syndrome awareness. Our spectacular students donned their commemorative t-shirts and posed in front of the backdrop, showcasing inclusivity and celebrating the unique traits that make us great. Thank you to Ms. Von for coordinating the event, and special thanks to our students, faculty and staff for promoting a welcoming and safe environment for all of our kids.

Washington School was busy promoting literacy in our schools during the month of April! As a follow up to Read Across America week, we welcomed not one, but two published authors to share their stories with our students.

Mrs. Ameri’s 3rd graders welcomed Mrs. Shege Hoti, author of Brave Beginnings: Embracing Positivity and Friendship as a Refugee Child came to read her book about her life as an ESL student and not knowing English in first grade. She also shared in her inspiring story about escaping the war from Albania in 2001. Her book reflects on these events, the instrumental impact of friendship, and the overwhelming power of positivity and support.

Ron Italiano, the author of "The Special Adventures of Choppy Wow Wow" is the father of two children with autism and drew on his experiences to create this heartwarming tale of a helper dog and a young boy who form a unique connection to start their life adventure. Ron’s mission is to write and publish inclusive content representing the special needs community for the purpose of education and awareness. Ron put on four assemblies for our Washington School students and at each one, one lucky student won a signed copy of his book for their class. Ron also donated a copy of his book to our Washington School library. Our students and staff truly enjoyed his time here and we hope to have him back next year!

Garfield School welcomed local author, Amulya Veldanda Vadali, to share her story in an exciting presentation for grades Kindergarten through Fourth grade. Vadal is the author of Cosmo, a book series about a brave golden retriever pup who goes on numerous adventures to face his fears. Students were able to purchase signed copies of her book and everyone received a free poster of the main character in the series, Cosmo.

Contributing to the literary explorations that evolve in our schools every day, Garfield students had a chance to witness words coming to life as local author, Theresa Del Vecchio, visited the preschool classes to share her new book and sign copies for the students and teachers. DelVecchio is an accomplished children's author, penning widely loved titles including Ella's Wildly Wonderful Hair, Apple Pies and Hayrides, Ice Cream Treats, and her most resent publication, Pancakes with Pop Pop. Her books combine sensory imagery with heartwarming themes to help students make connections with their families and celebrate their individual traits.

Future engineers at Garfield visited NJIT to compete in an elementary STEM competition. Ryder, Sarah, Sebastian, Isabella, and Rayan created a prototype along with help from their teacher-coaches Ms. Curry and Mrs. Hester-Fearon. Students were tasked to program a microbit to solve a problem in their community and promote health and wellness. These engineers decided to create a mindfulness center to help students calm down during the school day. They created code, programming the microbit to play music, deliver breathing reminders, and count their wiggles to "shake the stress away". They met weekly with their team and NJIT mentor, Sarisha Singh, to work on the project. Additionally, the team collaborated with Mrs. LaRossa and her student Saffia at Kearny High School to print a 3D design of their prototype. At the competition, the students had the opportunity to present their project and prototype, explore the NJIT campus, visit the Makerspace, and more. Garfield School Engineers learned so much during this 7-week process, meeting deadlines, working together, and studying the Engineering Design Process. They are excited to continue their journey in coding and programming and perhaps return to NJIT as college students one day.