On February 25, East End School will welcome the North Plainfield High School Step Team for an exciting assembly showcasing the art of stepping. Stepping is a dynamic, percussive dance form rooted in African American culture, with origins tracing back to the rhythmic communication and storytelling traditions of African communities. It gained prominence in Black fraternities and sororities, where it became a powerful expression of unity, pride, and resilience. As part of our Black History Month celebration, this performance will highlight the cultural significance of stepping and its connection to African American heritage. Students will experience the energy, discipline, and creativity of this unique art form while learning about its historical importance.

East End School will host an exciting interactive Double Dutch demonstration for our 2nd, 3rd, and 4th graders durig their Specials class, led by a professional Double Dutch organization (date TBA). Double Dutch, a jump rope style involving two ropes turning in opposite directions, has deep roots in Black culture and history. While its origins date back to ancient civilizations, it became a staple in African American communities, especially in New York City, where it evolved into a competitive and creative sport. Double Dutch is a symbol of teamwork, rhythm, and perseverance—values that align with the resilience and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. As part of our Black History Month celebration, this event will give students the opportunity to learn the techniques, rhythm, and joy of this vibrant tradition while honoring its cultural significance.

Join us for Black History Month Spirit Week during the week of February 24 as we honor the rich history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans through themed days that inspire unity, knowledge, and pride!

📅 Monday: Kickoff to Black History Month Spirit Week! – We’ll introduce the week’s themes and reflect on why Black history is important every day of the year.

📅 Tuesday: Unity Day – Wear Red, Black, and Green! – Show your pride and solidarity by wearing the colors of the Pan-African flag, representing resilience (black), sacrifice (red), and hope for the future (green).

📅 Wednesday: Stop, Drop, and Read! – Celebrate Black literature and storytelling by taking time to read a book featuring Black history, leaders, or culture.

📅 Thursday: Living Your Dream Day! – Honor the legacy of Black pioneers and changemakers by dressing as what you dream of becoming—just like the trailblazers who broke barriers before us!

📅 Friday: Dress to Impress! – In the spirit of Black excellence, wear your finest attire to celebrate the strength, dignity, and brilliance of Black leaders who paved the way for future generations.

Let’s make this a week of learning, inspiration, and celebration! 🎉

Thursday, February 13 - Early Dismissal 12:20 pm (Staff Professional Learning)

Friday, February 14 - No School (Staff Professional Learning)

Monday, February 17 - No School (President's Day Observed)

Please click the links below for resources for housing, food, clothing, medical care, mental health services, social services, and legal services.

If you would like to volunteer your time to the PTO please fill out this form.

Here is the link to all of the virtual PTO meetings for the year.

Through a collaboration amongst East End staff members, the Helping Your Child at Home document was created to support parents with ways they can help their children at home. Copies were shared at Parent-Teacher Conferences and a copy in English and Spanish can be found below.

Please click the link below for a letter from Dr. Aquino, Superintendent of Schools, regarding the implementation of an appointment-only visitation policy for all schools.

Click here for a PDF of this letter in English and in Spanish.

There are still open spots in the 21st Century free afterschool program for students in grades 3 and 4. Parents are able to register on the Genesis Parent Portal.

Questions? Please contact Dr. Stephenson at jerard_stephenson@nplainfield.org

Dental Health Visit Recap

This week we participated in Dental Health Visits, where our students had the opportunity to learn valuable tips for maintaining healthy teeth. Key Takeaways from the Visit:

1. Brushing and Flossing Techniques
Our dental health expert demonstrated the correct way to brush and floss, emphasizing the importance of brushing three times a day for at least two minutes and flossing once a day.

2. Healthy Eating for Healthy Teeth
The students learned that a balanced diet plays a key role in maintaining strong teeth. We talked about limiting sugary snacks and drinks, as well as the importance of eating foods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy for stronger enamel and healthier gums.

3. Visiting the Dentist Regularly
The children were reminded to visit the dentist at least twice a year for a checkup and cleaning.

We encourage all parents to continue these conversations at home and help remind your child about the importance of brushing, flossing, and eating healthy to protect their smiles. If you have any questions or need tips for making dental health routines easier for your child, feel free to reach out.

Thank you for your support in helping us promote good health habits!

NPEA and the North Plainfield district nurses are excited to present you with an exciting opportunity! Optical Academy will service our district on March 13th from 3 to 7 PM in the North Plainfield Middle School Gym. All district staff, students, family members, and community members are eligible to participate in this event.

The Optical Academy is a complete on-site optical shop offering eye exams, glasses, contacts, and more. Because of their affiliation with NJEA, they are able to offer highly discounted rates and as a result, they have serviced over 150,000 NJEA members and saved NJEA members over $25 million. All insurance is accepted for eye exams. For those without insurance, eye exams are only $30 and frames and lenses start at $29 . If the $59 is financial hardship for you or your family, please reach out to your school nurse. Use this link https://optical-academy.com/events/north-plainfield-education-association-3, which is also on the attached flyer, to pre-register.

Did you know that the East End Update can be translated into many languages with the click of a button? Click the "Translate" button at the top of the screen to translate the entire newsletter.

*Eunice is Room 33's student of the week! Eunice is always willing to help someone and works hard to complete assignments.

*It's Sabrina's special week! We are looking forward to celebrating her and seeing all the ways that she demonstrates C.A.R.D.!

*Omar is always so positive and encouraging to his classmates! He shows his classmates caring and respect. I love his positive attitude and his encouragement of others. Thank you, Omar!

*Your hard work and kindness constantly shines through! Thank you for leading by example—keep it up! We appreciate you Guinevere!

*Taysir, your hard work, positive attitude, and enthusiasm have truly stood out! We’re so proud of how you’ve stepped up this week—showing kindness, respect, and teamwork with your classmates and teachers. Keep up the fantastic work!

*Dennis was working with his small great in Math and noticed that some friends needed help with the problems they were working on. He quickly got math manipulatives to help them. He also asked if anyone else needed the tools he had before he cleaned up and put everything away. Thank you, Dennis!

*Sabrina is working so hard on her English speaking skills! She is participating in class discussions and also willing to participate directly our circle time! Everyone in room 32 is proud of you, Sabrina!!

*Kevin is our student of the week in room 26 and he demonstrates CARD by showing respect for his classmates and teachers. Kevin is always listening to his teachers, is a math superstar, and sets a great example for his classmates. Keep up the great work Kevin!

*Yostin is very helpful to his teachers. He always helps out by cleaning up messes that are left at the lunch table or his table by other students.

*Bianka saw Ms. Valentine coming up the stairs and came over to open the stairwell door for her without being asked. Way to be caught being awesome, Bianka!

* Deysi is extremely respectful to her teachers and peers. She comes to school determined and ready to learn each day. Keep up the hard work!

*Daniela is always willing to give a helping hand to her teachers or her classmates. When the teacher asks for help she's ready to jump to the task. Thank you, Daniela! We appreciate you.

Click HERE for the February Edition of the Mustang Monthly!

Friday, February 7- Spirit Day- East End Swag Day

Wednesday, February 12- East End PTO Meeting (VIRTUAL) 630-7:30PM

Thursday, February 13 - Early Dismissal 12:20 pm (Staff Professional Learning)

Friday, February 14 - No School (Staff Professional Learning)

Monday, February 17 - No School (President's Day Observed)

Email: East_End@nplainfield.com
Website: https://npeee.nplainfield.org/
Location: 170 Oneida Ave, North Plainfield, NJ 07060, USA
Phone: (908) 769-6070

Welcome to New Jersey provides information to families that have recently moved to New Jersey. You will find information about resources and services including legal services, food and income assistance, health care and mental health services, school enrollment, getting a state identification card, and transportation. All the topics have links that will direct you to the indicated websites. There are also flyers and contact information regarding the different services and resources available to New Jersey residents.

Education Partnership Spanish-Speaking Presentation: The Somerset County Education Partnership recorded a webinar (in Spanish) to educate families about available resources in the county & how to access these services. Webinar includes representatives from Somerset County Dept of Human Services, Family Crisis Intervention Unit (FCIU), Richard Hall Community Health & Wellness Center, Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (PESS), Juvenile Institutional Services (JIS), Mobile Response & Stabilization Services (MRSS), Care Management Organization (CMO) & McKinney-Vento Education Program. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tARW-lNUL8Q

In addition to the Upcoming Events section of the East End Update, families can review upcoming events in the 'Calendar' section of the new East End website.

https://npeee.nplainfield.org/about/calendar