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Bobcat Bulletin

September 2024

Bobcat Bulletin September 2024
Bobcat Bulletin September 2024

A Message from Dr. Moss

Make it a September to remember!

Welcome to the exciting month of September! We are already off to a fantastic start, and it has been wonderful seeing our students return with smiles, enthusiasm, and a readiness to learn. September is a pivotal month as we settle into the routines and expectations that will shape a successful school year.


Establishing Routines

By now, students are becoming familiar with their schedules, classrooms, and teachers. We are focusing on building strong, positive habits that will serve them throughout the year. You can help reinforce this at home by encouraging consistent bedtimes, organized mornings, and designated homework spaces to foster focus and responsibility.


Curriculum and Learning Goals

In both our 4th and 5th grade classrooms, students are diving into engaging lessons across all subjects. Our teachers are emphasizing inquiry, collaboration, and creativity. We’re placing special emphasis on literacy and math foundations, while also encouraging students to explore their interests in science, social studies, and the arts. This is a time for students to build confidence and curiosity in their learning journey.


Family-School Partnership

We know that education is a partnership between school and home, and your involvement is key to your child’s success. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing opportunities for you to connect with the school—whether through back to school night or attending events. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Open communication is essential, and we value your input.

Important Dates for this upcoming week:

  • Back-to-School Night – September 19th at 6:00 PM
  • HBS Book Fair - September 16th-20th

Thank you for your continued support and trust in us. Let’s make this September a month of growth, community, and joy as we work together to give our students the best experience possible.

Warm regards,

Dr. Moss

Meet our new Bobcat Staff!

Mrs. Pachuta - Special Education Teacher

My name is Krista Pachuta, and I am so excited to be joining the Bobcat family this fall. I have my BS in Developmental Psychology and Special Education, along with my MAT in both General and Special Education and have spent my time in kindergarten, first, second and seventh grade classrooms. I took some time in between teaching to stay home with my children, but continued working part time with The College of New Jersey to support young adults with intellectual disabilities. When I’m not in the classroom you can find me boating, reading, or on the beach. I’m thrilled to be joining the HBS community and can’t wait to meet each of you!

Mr. Hampton - Music Education

Hello, my name is Mr. Hampton, the new music teacher at Holland Brook School! I've been so fortunate to be in the profession for four, going five years now!

From those years, I have learned that music is a vehicle of not solely exploring sounds in the classroom, but also everyday values like preparation, self-discipline, and a sense of community.


I hope to see you all at HBS very soon!

Miss Petersen - 4th Grade Teacher

My name is Miss Petersen and this will be my first year as a Bobcat! I taught third grade for the past two years at Whitehouse School and I am so excited to continue my journey in Readington as a fourth grade teacher. I am currently working towards my masters degree at Rutgers University and I am passionate about education. Outside of school, I love to read, cook, run, and do yoga. This summer, I spent a lot of time with friends and family at the beach. I can't wait for an amazing year at Holland Brook School!

Mrs. Majowka - 4th Grade Teacher

My name is Mrs. Majowka and it is my 21st year teaching in Readington. I spent a majority of that time at Whitehouse School as a second and third grade teacher. However, I began my career as a Bobcat teaching intervention and then fourth grade; I am thrilled to return to Holland Brook School! I hold a Master in the Arts of Teaching from The College of New Jersey. In my spare time, I love to run with friends, read novels, and old cookbooks. Over the summer, I made trips to Cape May, Cooperstown, NY and Maryland for tournaments to cheer on my two teenage sons.

Mrs. Amster - Principal Secretary

My name is Theresa Amster, and I am the Principal’s Secretary at Holland Brook School. I have worked at Readington Middle School for the past nine years, beginning as a paraprofessional, then moving on to a clerical aide position, and finally, as the Secretary to Dr. Moss in his role as Assistant Principal for the last 4 ½ years. Prior to this, I have worked in Accounting and Finance on Wall Street, as well as in various tech companies here in New Jersey. I live in Readington Township with my husband and two children, and we all enjoy spending time at the beach during the summer. I am looking forward to the new school year at Holland Brook School and working with our talented staff members to ensure the most positive educational experience for our students.

Mr. deVelder - Special Education

My name is Mr. deVelder and I come to you with 22 years of experience in education. I am a student first educator that differentiates my instruction to meet the student within their learning styles. I have always had a passion for sports and continue to coach sports at RMS. Lastly I am a big fan of cooking, hot sauce and the NY Jets.

Mrs. Crielly - School Counselor

My name is Christine Crielly, School Counselor, I have been with Readington Township School District for the past 19 years and I am starting my 20th year in the District. I have worked at both Holland Brook School and Readington Middle School in the past. I will be providing individual and group counseling to students, along with classroom lessons, 504 case management, and H.I.B. investigations. I am part of several other committees here at HBS. I love working with children and their families to ensure they have a positive educational experience.

Officer Kurt - School Resource Officer

I worked for the Bridgewater Police Dept for 27 years. The last two years were in the capacity of a School Resource Officer. During that time, I was also an instructor (teaching) within the police department and at the police academy. I have always focused on professional development and made time for training and seizing those teachable moments. As a parent and a police officer, I understand the safety concerns of our community at our schools, and take that responsibility very seriously. I look forward to working with the administration and the community for a safe successful school year.

Mrs. Rieche

My name is Anne Rieche and I am the new teacher for the autism program. I received my degree in Special Education from Kean College and have worked with children with special needs for over 30 years. I have worked in this district for 16+ years as a paraprofessional and as a special education teacher. I have lived in Readington Township for over 25 years where I have raised my family.

What I Love About Holland Brook (Student Edition)

In this section, you will hear from various students throughout the year on their thoughts and experiences about HBS. This month we will highlight 4th grader John Roglieri and 5th grader Emmalee Sylvester.

Hi my name is John Roglieri and I am a 4th grader at HBS. Even though it has only been a week, I have already grown to love it here. Everyone including my teacher, has been very welcoming. I am excited to explore and read books in a much larger library. Everyday I look forward to playing in the gaga pit with my friends and making new friends from Three Bridges. Go Bobcats. Be our best, care all the time.


Hi my name is Emmalee Sylvester and I am a 5th grader at HBS. The teachers and Principal are the absolute best. They are kind and very helpful and that's the number one reason I love it here at Holland Brook School. Secondly, I started playing the clarinet in grade 4 and now I've graduated to the saxophone as a 5th grader which I really enjoy because I love jazz music. I am a foodie, so lunch is a big deal to me. The food here is delicious and having ice cream available any days is such a treat!

HBS Pep Rally

Last week, we kicked off the school year with an exciting pep rally that brought our entire school community together! The gym was filled with energy as students from both 4th and 5th grade cheered and waved signs to show their school spirit. Students enjoyed fun games which helped bring everyone to their feet. The enthusiasm was contagious, and it set a positive tone for the rest of the school year.


During the rally, we also took time to recognize our amazing teachers and staff, who have been working hard to prepare for a successful year. Later in the pep rally we announced some Brave Bobcats! We reminded students of the importance of teamwork, respect, and perseverance. It was wonderful to see the smiles and excitement on everyone's faces, and we’re looking forward to continuing this momentum throughout the school year. Go Bobcats!

HBS Bobcat Welcome Back Event

Our Welcome Back Event hosted by the HSA was an unforgettable event, bringing together students, families, and staff for an evening of fun and excitement! The music had everyone dancing and moving setting the tone for a great year ahead. Students from both 4th and 5th grades showed off their school spirit with cheers and plenty of enthusiasm. Outside, food and an ice cream truck served up delicious snacks, giving everyone a chance to relax, socialize, and enjoy the sunny weather. It was a fantastic way to kick off the new school year and reconnect with our school community.


The event also gave students and staff the chance to celebrate being back together, building excitement for what’s to come. The fun atmosphere and shared joy created a strong sense of unity among everyone who attended. With music, food, and plenty of smiles, the event set a positive tone for the year, leaving everyone looking forward to the months ahead! A big thank you to the HSA!

Back To School Night

Dear Parents and Guardians,

I hope this message finds you well! We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Back to School Night. This will be a wonderful opportunity to meet your child's teacher, and learn more about their daily schedule, classroom expectations, curriculum, and the exciting activities planned for the year ahead!

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, September 19, 2024

  • Time: 6:00-8:00 p.m.

  • Location: The evening will begin in the HBS Gymnasium at 6:00 p.m. for a brief introduction from Dr. Moss. Once that concludes, you will proceed to your child’s homeroom to begin teacher presentations and receive the schedule that will be followed for the remainder of the evening.

  • Specials: After homeroom presentations, you will have time to visit our Special Education, Art, Music, Physical Education, Innovation & Design, Intervention, Band, Library, G&T, Discover, and Spanish teachers. This will take place in the HBS cafeteria from 7:30-8:00 p.m.

  • Book Fair: The Book Fair will be open from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Only parents and guardians should attend Back to School Night. The program is not geared toward students, but we hope that you share with your students what you have learned this evening with them! We highly encourage your attendance, as this will set the tone for a strong home-school partnership. Your support is crucial to helping your child thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

We look forward to seeing you at Back to School Night on Thursday, September 19, 2024!

Sincerely,

Dr. Jonathan T. Moss

Principal, Holland Brook School

Upcoming Important Dates

Monday, September 16-Friday, September 20-HBS Book Fair

Thursday, September 19 - Back to School Night 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Thursday, October 3 - School is closed in observation of Rosh Hashana

Monday, October 7-Friday, October 11 - Week of Respect

Monday, October 14-Friday, October 18 - Violence Awareness Week

Monday, October 14 and Tuesday, October 15th - School is closed for teacher in-service

Wednesday, October 16 - District Wide Unity Day

Friday, October 18 - HSA Pumpkin Bash

Wednesday, October 23-Thursday, October 31 - Red Ribbon Week

Tuesday, October 29 - Picture Day Make-Ups

Thursday, October 31 - HBS Halloween Parade at 1:15 p.m.

YMCA Aftercare

The Hunterdon County YMCA is offering aftercare daily until 6:00 p.m. (There is no morning care.) Click Here to register.

HBS Breakfast and Lunch Menu

Click here for the HBS Breakfast and Lunch Menu.

HBS September Calendar

Important Links

Families, please be sure to log into the Genesis Parent Portal to make sure your contact information is updated. This includes phone numbers and email addresses. If you need assistance updating this information, please contact the main office at 908-823-0454.

Click here to view the currently approve calendar for the 2024-2025 school year.

Contact and Social Media

Readington Township Public Schools Mission Statement

  • We empower members of our community to lead purposeful lives with integrity, to cultivate a spirit of discovery, and to embrace connections in our diverse, global society.


District Strategic Goals

  • Inquisitive Learning - Create and establish an inquiry-based framework that values an interest-driven learning environment. Learners will, individually and collaboratively, focus on identifying, analyzing, and solving problems as inquisitive members of their community.
  • Partnerships - Establish partnerships that foster meaningful educational opportunities on local, regional, and global scales. Prepare all learners to become engaged and productive citizens through service to others, collaboration, and real-world connections.
  • Social Awareness - Our learners will feel connected, valued, and secure in digital and non-digital learning environments cultivated by a shared sense of community. Every individual will develop skills that promote an awareness of self and others as well as the environment, including the ability to understand the impact of their decisions.
Jonathan Moss
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