Let's Talk TPS
November 6, 2024
Family Engagement in Schools
“At the end of the day, the most overwhelming key to a child’s success is the positive involvement of parents.” - Jane D. Hull, former Governor of Arizona (1997-2003).
“Parents are teachers, and home is a child’s first and most important classroom.”
- Hillary Clinton, former First Lady & Secretary of State, (It Takes a Village, 1996)
November is Family Engagement Month, a time for us to recognize and celebrate the important role families play in supporting their children's education and development.
Decades ago (early 1980’s), our district launched Home and School Associations that evolved to Home School Associations (HSAs) at each of our schools. Our HSAs consist of a group of parents and guardians who come together to plan, organize, and support their schools in programs, events, and special school needs (from elementary lunch and digital signs to school playgrounds and field trips). The primary role of each HSA is to bridge the gap between parents/families and the schools, share information, and provide a voice for all parents.
Every year, you or your child may attend school book fairs, cultural arts programs, an after-school club, or an end-of-year event (including Project Graduation). These are all brought to you by our HSAs. If we want to continue to enjoy all the wonderful things that they make possible, please reach out as they are in need of more volunteers.
So, in the spirit of this month, I want to thank our HSAs for their ongoing support of our schools while encouraging all parents to check out your school's HSA. By committing a few hours each month, our students will benefit from these important school programs and projects for years to come!
Yours in Education,
Michael Ben-David J.D./M.Ed.
Superintendent of Schools
Native American Lesson from TNC
Could you survive off the land and its natural resources? That's what the Lenape tribe did - right here in New Jersey! Our 3rd grade students had the opportunity to visit the Tenafly Nature Center and experience some of their survival techniques firsthand. They also learned that the Lenape were the first to name Manhattan; they lived in wigwams or long houses for bigger families; they moved every 10 to 12 years to let the land replenish; and they harvested corn (maize), squash, and beans. A fitting lesson as we head into this Native American Heritage Month!
THS Hosts Switzerland Visitors
Last week, Tenafly High School had a wonderful visit from Adrian Krebs and his group of eight top tech students (known as TIE) from Switzerland! This visit, combined with the recent "young professionals" exchange accords between the U.S. and Switzerland (in which Mr. Krebs is playing a part), opens amazing opportunities for students in both countries. From singing to eating, check out some highlights of their recent visit via video.
Rumors - THS Play November 21-23
Tenafly High School Theatrical Productions will be presenting Neil Simon's Rumors on November 21, 22, 23 ( 7.30 pm) at THS.
Rumors is about four couples who are at the Hamptons estate of a deputy New York City mayor and his wife to celebrate their 10 year wedding anniversary. It's a hilarious farce that gets more insane as the play progresses. The show stars Raphaella Bamonte, Clara Pimenta, Sophia Endick, Erica Ruiz, Annabelle Denniston, Sara Hau, Guy Persitz, Wren Ophir, Reece Holden, and Ian Fleischer.
Tickets are $10 at the door, $5 for teachers, and can be reserved online at www.thstheater.org
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a hilarious show while supporting our talented students!
