The Mount Laurel Leaflet

Dear Mount Laurel Family,

As we enter this holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you—our incredible teachers, staff, students, and families. This time of year, is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the many blessings we share as a school community.

We are truly fortunate to have a team of dedicated and passionate educators who make a profound difference in the lives of our students every single day. The creativity, commitment, and care that our teachers bring to their classrooms inspire and nurture the minds and hearts of our children. It’s a privilege to witness the growth, curiosity, and joy that come from the engaging activities and enriching experiences provided by our school.

Equally important is the unwavering support from our families. Your involvement, encouragement, and partnership are what make our school district such a special place. Together, we create a strong foundation for our children’s success and well-being, and we are grateful for the role each of you plays in making this possible.

This holiday season, let us take time to appreciate the amazing community we’ve built and the positive impact we continue to have on one another’s lives. I hope each of you finds peace, joy, and fulfillment during this festive season, and that the New Year brings continued happiness and success to our school family.

Thank you for your dedication, your support, and for the kindness you show each and every day. Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful, restful, and joyful holiday season!

Warmly,
George J. Rafferty, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Switzer made it around the entre school reading to all Fleetwood Elementary classrooms about holidays and traditions. Above the combined 4th Grade classes are learning about Hanukkah and enjoying the book, The Borrowed Hanukkah Latkas.

Membership in the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a middle school student. This prestigious organization values five pillars - scholarship, service, citizenship, character, and leadership. On Monday, December 12th, 28 seventh and eighth graders repeated the NJHS oath to become official members at the Induction Ceremony. Student President, Saanvi Pal, and student Vice President, William Wenk, did a wonderful job hosting the ceremony in the Thomas E. Harrington Auditorium. Congratulations to all!

Springville Elementary School winners of the Jump Into Reading Challenge from Senator Singletary's Office (pictured left to right) with Dr. Mitchell

is the 3rd/4th grade winner, Chase Leightner. and Reyansh Reddy, 1st/2nd grade winner.

Students & staff from Fleetwood Elementary School share their holiday spirit with residents of Brightview Assisted Living!

The dogs and cats at the Burlington County Animal Shelter received an extra dose of love and attention last week from some special students.

The Hartford Hounds 4 Hounds, a group of 5th graders from Mount Laurel Hartford School, visited the shelter on Thursday evening to read to the animals and learn more about the shelter’s operations and how residents can help.

The students are also collecting pet toys, food, blankets and monetary donations to give to the shelter. They’ve raised more than $600 in donations already and the collection continues until Friday this week.

The Burlington County Commissioners wish to thank these students for their outstanding service and support for the shelter and its animals. These students are not only demonstrating their heart and caring spirt, but they are setting a great example for other students and residents to follow.

Donation Wish List - Click Here

Monetary Donations to Hound4Hound Program - Click Here

Students at Harrington have the opportunity to participate in

the heritage month library challenge.

The Extended Day Care program is available for the upcoming half-day session on December 20, 2024.

THE EDC PROGRAM WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY DROP-INS OR CALLS AFTER THE DEADLINE FOR THE DECEMBER 20, 2024 after Friday, December 13, 2024.

If your child is scheduled for the half-day session, please provide lunch and snacks. The EDC program does not allow food delivery services (Uber Eats, Doordash, Slice, etc.).

This reminder is available at each EDC site, in the Mount Laurel Leaflet, and emailed through the Procare notification system.

Please schedule now!

PHONE: 856-231-5891 (Please use extensions below)

Chris Sherf- csherf@mtlaurelschools.org (PRIMARY EDC EXT. 21004)

Yvette Gonzalez -yvgonzalez@mtlaurelschools.org (SCHEDULING EXT. 21001)

Pam Witts-pwitts@mtlaurelschools.org (Site Coordinator EXT. 21009)

Suzy Haftman- shaftman@mtlaurelschools.org (Director of Community Education & EDC EXT. 21002)

As the winter break approaches, we invite you to take a moment to slow down, recharge, and embrace the peace this season can bring.

The holidays are often filled with joy and connection, but they can also bring challenges—whether it’s missing a loved one, juggling holiday preparations, or managing the pressures of the season. While each of us celebrates in our own way, it’s important to acknowledge all feelings that may arise and remember it’s okay to ask for support when needed.

Mount Laurel Township School District has partnered with Care Solace to help support the well-being of our community. Whether you or a family member need support with mental health or substance use, Care Solace can connect you to care options that meet your needs—quickly, confidentially, and at no cost to you.

How to Access Support:

• Call: 888-515-0595 (Multilingual support available 24/7/365)
• Visit: www.caresolace.com/mtlaurelschools
• Search for providers independently or click “Book Appointment” to get assistance via video chat, phone, or email.

If you or someone you know needs immediate support with mental health or substance use, Care Solace is here to help you find the right care options, quickly and confidentially.

How to Get Help:

• Call: 888-515-0595 (Multilingual support available 24/7/365)
• Visit: www.caresolace.com/mtlaurelschools
• Search on your own or click “Book Appointment” to receive assistance via video, phone, or email.

20

Early Dismissal - Staff & Students

23-31

Winter Recess

Schools Closed

1

New Year's Day

Schools Closed

2

Schools Reopen

20

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Schools Closed

.

.

.

.

.

.

Website: http://www.mtlaurelschools.org
Location: 330 Mount Laurel Road, Mount Laurel Township, NJ, USA
Phone: 856-235-3387
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlschools/
Twitter: @MTL_Super