PPHS December 2024 Newsletter

#R.O.A.R. #ShowYourStripes

Principal's Corner

Dear Tiger Community,

I hope this message finds you and your families in good health and high spirits.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended our Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 21st. Your involvement and collaboration in your child's education are invaluable, and it truly takes a team effort to support our students. We appreciate your ongoing partnership!

I would also like to express my gratitude to all of our parents and guardians for their continued commitment to ensuring that students arrive at school on time and ready to learn. Thanks to your support, our school-wide attendance rate has remained strong, averaging 96% through November. As we move into the winter months and the holiday season, I kindly ask for your continued assistance in maintaining high attendance. Historically, we do see a drop in attendance during this time, so I urge you to plan holiday travels around our scheduled breaks. Please note that absences due to voluntary travel are not excused.

On behalf of the entire faculty, staff, and administration of Palisades Park Jr./Sr. High School, I would like to wish you and your family a joyful, safe, and restful holiday season.

With Tiger Pride,

Mr. Andrew Garcia

🎓🎒🍎 October Student and Teacher of the Month 🍎🎒🎓

The Student and Teacher of the month is a new recognition program for the 24-25 SY. Students and Teachers nominate individuals who emulate our R.O.A.R. motto and Show Your Stripes school year theme.

Tyler Jung - Student of the Month

Tyler is a truly humble and compassionate individual. When informed of this recognition, he expressed that it serves as a reminder for all of us to be more mindful of showing kindness and supporting one another. His friend described him as "generous" and "always looking out for me," which perfectly captures the spirit of Tyler's character.

We are incredibly fortunate to have Tyler as part of the PPHS community. His kindness and generosity make a positive impact on those around him every day. Keep up the outstanding work, Tyler—you're setting a wonderful example for all of us!

Mr. Mark Arrabito - Teacher of the Month

Mr. Arrabito is a truly deserving recipient of this recognition, as he embodies many qualities that make him an outstanding member of our school community. But don't just take my word for it—here are a few words from students who have experienced his dedication firsthand:

Passionate about his job and pushes us to become better musicians
Always helps us
I look forward to his class everyday!
He is great at interacting with and engaging students
He has a great attitude and mood
Teaches in a way everyone understands
He has grown the program from 40 students in advanced band to over 60!

🍂 November Recap 🍂

Congratulations to all the students who earned a spot on the Principal’s List for Q1! Your dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence are truly commendable. You serve as an inspiration to your peers. Keep up the great work, and continue striving for success in everything you do!

November 1st marks both All Saints' Day and Día de los Muertos in many Latin American countries. To honor these traditions, Mrs. Farnese's Spanish classes culminated their unit by creating their own ofrendas.

Each year, the Korean Language Foundation awards scholarships to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to learning the Korean language and culture. This year, two PPHS students were honored at the annual luncheon and received scholarships. Congratulations to senior Mariana Estrada and 8th grader Esther Lee for their outstanding achievement!

Ms. Vivirito and Ms. McCambridge led their talented cast and crew in our annual Skit Night, showcasing the incredible hard work and dedication. The students' acting talents shone brightly on stage, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained. A huge round of applause goes to everyone— from the lighting, sound, and stage crew to the actors—for putting on a truly outstanding show!

Palisades Park Tiger sportsmanship was on full display at the 29th Annual Bergen County Boys Soccer Coaches Association Awards Banquet. Dany Balan was named League Player of the Year, Brayan Medina received the Unsung Hero Award, and our very own Athletic Director, Mr. Eliopoulos, was recognized as Administrator of the Year. Congratulations to all—let’s go Tigers!