Orchard eNews

Dear Orchard Families,

Happy Tuesday!

• It's time to elect our HSA Executive Board for next year. If you are interested in becoming more involved in your child's school or know somebody who would, please sign up or nominate someone to fill the role by April 4th.

• Join us on Thursday, 3/27 at 7 pm for The Anxious Generation book talk at Paris Baguette. Join Mrs. Ferreri & the HSA for some coffee and treats as we unpack the book! Email Mrs. Ferreri if you plan to attend.

• April is upon us. Don't forget to order lunch for next month. Pizza Day is every Thursday!

March has been a whirlwind of significant events, culminating in the release of marking period 2 report cards this afternoon. As we transition into April, Mrs. Ferreri's letter reflects on students' growth and the groundwork being laid for the 2025-26 academic year.

As part of the Strategic Plan, Ridgewood Public Schools is embarking on a rebrand process. This includes our logos at the school and district levels, district motto, and more.

We are seeking 2-3 parent representatives per school to provide input into this process. If interested, please email us at info@rpsnj.us. Thank you!

Join Mrs. Ferreri and the HSA for a Parent Book Club to discuss Jonathan Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation. Read all, some or even none of the book. It will be a fun and informative event!

The Anxious Generation book talk will be held on Thursday, 3/27, at 7 PM at Paris Baguette. Join us for some coffee and treats as we unpack the book! Email Mrs. Ferreri if you plan to attend.

Our teachers work wonders in the classroom, turning everyday moments into learning opportunities. Let's show them our appreciation with more than just words!

Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6-10) is coming, and we're raising funds to provide them with treats, surprises, and a moment of relaxation.

Your donation will directly contribute to making this a special week, giving our teachers the recognition they deserve. Donate today and make a real difference!

Orchard HSA Executive Board is seeking candidates for the 2025-2026 term. Available positions include Co-President, Vice President, Assistant Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, and Recording Secretary. Nominate yourself or a friend by Friday, April 4th.

Your participation can make a positive impact! For questions or more information, contact the Nominations Committee. Thank you for supporting Orchard HSA.

There are also many opportunities to chair a committee for the 2025-26 school year! Whether you love planning events, organizing behind the scenes, or just want an excuse for adult interaction, there’s a perfect fit for everyone. Check out this comprehensive list of committees to see how you can help. No experience needed—just enthusiasm and a can-do attitude!

Interested? Curious? Email Vanessa Carr to learn more!

These popular trucker hats sold out in minutes at the Marketplace! Get yours today!

We are also accepting cash donations for this worthy cause. Contact Sarah McCourt, Alex Hayes, or Jenna Hammond for more information.

Orchard, your excellent reading in February made us very proud. Thank you!

More than 2,000 Ridgewood students participated in the Reading Marathon this year, raising over $7,500 for the Ridgewood Public Library! If you submitted your reading through the online form, your student(s) received their Ben & Jerry's coupon for one free ice cream.

For those who donated $25 or more, the Ridgewood Public Library will contact you directly to choose a book for your bookplate.

Orchard Dads Night Out is making its triumphant return. Prepare yourselves for the Axe Throwing Edition, a glorious evening of flying steel and friendly competition where the only thing sharper than the axes will be your wit.

We're taking over Bury the Hatchet in Paramus on Thursday, April 3rd, from 8 to 10 pm, for a night of pure, unadulterated dad-venture.

For a mere $60, you'll get to hurl axes like a Viking warrior and refuel with some hearty grub. Just remember to bring your favorite beverages to keep those throwing arms limber. No prior axe-throwing experience is required, just a healthy dose of competitive spirit.

Secure your spot now and get ready to unleash your inner woodsman.

CALLING ALL Elementary School ARTISTS! What Does Earth Day Mean to YOU? GREEN RIDGEWOOD is accepting poster entries for our 2nd Annual Earth Day Art Contest.

Here’s how it works: Design a poster that depicts what Earth Day means to you and drop off your poster to Ms. Chicas by Friday, April 4th.

Attention all current and incoming GW Parents! George Washington Middle School's Career Day is Tuesday, April 8, 2025. Students will hear career presentations from parents and community members all day, with a final teacher-led reflection period. We need 20 more presenters! Sign up to share your career path, even in your child's class (if applicable). An optional 5-slide presentation template is provided. Attend one virtual planning session (March 19 or April 1, 7-8 pm, links provided upon signup). Email gwhsacareerday@gmail.com with questions. Gratitude, smiles, and fun guaranteed!

Make back-to-school easy!

Pre-order your child's 2025-2026 school supply kit from 1st Day School Supplies. Kits are filled with teacher-approved supplies and delivered directly to the classroom before the first day. No shopping, no stress – just a smooth start to the school year. Order by July 1st.

Never lose another coat or your favorite Orchard sweatshirt! Label Daddy saves the day AND supports Orchard HSA with 25% of your purchase donated back to the school. Order today!

Huge thanks to Jimena Chwe and Kristin Lee for the fantastic spirit wear! We're excited to see everyone rocking their Orchard gear!

🐟 Our class had a watery adventure with a Watershed Ambassador, discovering how our local waterways are all connected! We learned that even tiny pieces of trash can make a big splash of trouble. Now we're trash-busting superheroes, making sure every scrap finds its proper home! Let's keep our waterways sparkling!

To report your child's absence or tardiness, please notify the school by 9:00 AM.

You can:

• Call the attendance line at 201-670-2730, option 1.
• Email Mrs. Moran and Mrs. Yook.
  • If you email the teacher, cc the main office and this fulfills the notification requirement.
  • Attendance line: 201-670-2730, prompt 1 (before 9 am), prompt 0 (after 9 am)