SOAR Speaker: Maria C. Palmer
Our most recent Stories of Adversity & Resilience (SOAR) speaker, Maria C. Palmer, shared her family's story with our students through social studies classes this week. Mrs. Palmer's father opened a restaurant that became known as one of the best Italian restaurants in the country. That rise to prominence was followed by a steep fall that had a dramatic effect on her father and their family. Mrs. Palmer shared all of this, and coupled it with messages about finding the people who believe in you, following your dreams, and recognizing that the challenges and problems we face in life are moments that we can overcome.
In addition to her time in the classroom, Mrs. Palmer also stayed for the lunch periods to answer questions any of our students had that they didn't have a chance to ask during the presentation. We are grateful to Mrs. Palmer for all of the time she spent with us, as well as for sharing her story and the positive messages that come from persevering through such difficult times. Mrs. Palmer's story provided an excellent model for how, even when circumstances seem extremely hard, it is always possible to pull through and find success in the future.
We thank Mrs. Palmer for spending time with us, and we thank the PRM Home & School Association for all of their support with funding the SOAR program.
Congratulations to Our Student Musicians
Congratulations to Richard Cho and John Fiuza, both of whom play the trombone, for qualifying for the Concert Band. Congratulations, as well, to Colin Tobia, on percussion, who placed third overall. This earned him a spot in the coveted Symphonic Winds, the highest level available to an 8th grade musician.
Preschool Registration is Now Open
The Kinnelon Public School District is now accepting preschool applications. Our district's program offers the following:
- Full-day program: 9:20 am - 3:20 pm
- Play-based, Creative Curriculum, in a fully inclusive,
- enriched learning environment
- Classes in Art, Music, Library/Media, and Physical
- Education taught by certified teachers
- Children must be 3 or 4 years old as of 10/1/2025
- Tuition for General Education Students: $1,200/month
- Applications due by February 27, 2025
- Limited seats - awarded by lottery, if needed
Information can be found in this flyer. Those who are interested in applying can do so by clicking here.
Student Lounge Enhancements
The HSA was thrilled to help with some renovations to the student lounge at PRM. Students are able to spend time in the lounge during their lunch period, and it’s especially used during winter months. We purchased a rug, table and chairs, games, wall art, and bean bag chairs. Mrs. Yosifides also worked with the high school art classes to decorate the walls with inspirational art and words of advice from the students of KHS. We hope the students enjoy their lounge!