To Our Incredible Hamilton Township Staff: I Believe in You!

As we enter Staff Appreciation Week, I want to take a moment—on behalf of the Board of Education, our leadership, and our entire community—to speak directly to the heart of what makes Hamilton Township School District such a remarkable place: you, our dedicated staff.

Our teachers, support staff, and administrators give their all—day in and day out—for the well-being, growth, and success of our students. Your compassion, expertise, and commitment create a foundation of excellence and care that stretches far beyond the classroom.

When I served as a principal, I would begin every morning by telling my staff and students, “I believe in you.” These weren’t just words—they were a promise. A reminder that no matter the challenges we faced, I had faith in the people doing this important work. Today, I share those same words with all of you: I believe in you.

And here’s why that matters.

Belief is more than encouragement—it’s the fuel that drives change, resilience, and hope. When educators believe in themselves, their power multiplies. They lift students higher, transform classrooms into safe havens, and turn obstacles into opportunities. When I say I believe in you, I’m also saying: I see you, I respect you, and I know that together, we are capable of incredible things.

So during this Staff Appreciation Week—and every week—please know that you are deeply valued. Your work matters. Your presence matters. And you are making a lasting difference in the lives of children and families across our district.

From the bottom of my heart: thank you. Keep showing up. Keep leading with love. And never stop believing—in your students, in your colleagues, and in yourself.

With great appreciation,

Yours in education,

Dr. Zito

As we approach the upcoming state testing period, we want to ensure that your child feels adequately prepared and supported during this crucial time. State assessments provide valuable insights into your child's academic progress and help us tailor our teaching strategies to better meet their needs.

To ensure your child is ready to perform their best, we kindly ask for your support in the following areas:

1. Encourage a Healthy Routine: A good night's sleep and a nutritious breakfast can significantly impact your child's focus and energy levels during testing. Please make sure they get plenty of rest and provide them with a nutritious breakfast on testing days.

2. Review Test-Taking Strategies: Take some time to discuss test-taking strategies with your child, such as reading questions carefully, managing time effectively, and checking their work. Remind them that it's okay to ask for clarification if they don't understand a question.

3. Provide a Supportive Environment: Create a quiet and comfortable space at home where your child can study and complete homework without distractions. Encourage them to ask questions and seek help if they encounter any challenges.

4. Emphasize the Importance of Doing Their Best: While test scores are important, reassure your child that their worth is not solely determined by their performance on a test. Encourage them to approach the assessment with a positive attitude and do their best.

5. Stay Connected: Please don't hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher or school administration if you have any questions or concerns about the testing process or your child's preparation.

By working together, we can ensure that your child feels confident and supported as they approach the state assessments. Thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education.

• The final MAP assessment will be administered to K-8 students for the 2024-25 school year on June 2-6.

• NJSLA testing is starting: ELA May 5, 6, Math 13, 14, 15, Science May 19, 20 and will conclude by May 23.

• ACCESS Testing has been completed for the 2024-25 school year, and the ESL teachers have completed Data Validation.

Special Education Week in New Jersey will be observed from May 11–17, 2025, with this year’s theme: “Planting the Seed of Education.” Throughout the week, the district will proudly celebrate neurodiversity, fostering understanding and inclusion in all classrooms.

To support this initiative, students will engage in activities and lessons focused on neurodiversity. Thanks to the generosity of the PTA, all homeroom at the Hess School and the Shaner School will receive a special book: All Are Neighbors (Shaner) and The Abilities in Me: Inclusion (Hess). These titles were thoughtfully selected and requested by staff members to reinforce the message that in the Hamilton Township Schools, everyone belongs.

Students and staff will be encouraged to celebrate the week with colorful clothing. (see below)

• May 3, 2025 - Community Resource Fair - 10-1 p.m. - Hess School

• May 6, 2025 - Davies Spring Concert - 7:00 p.m. Hess Auditorium

• May 8, 2025 - Hess 4/5 Choir - 7:00 p.m. Hess Auditorium

• May 9, 2025 - 5th Grade Welcome Dance - Davies School - 5:00 p.m.

• May 15, 2025 - Hess Concert Band - 7:00 p.m. Hess Auditorium

• May 19, 2025 - PTA Meeting - 7:00 p.m. - Davies School Cafeteria

• May 30, 2025 - 8th Grade Dinner Dance - 5:00 p.m. - Davies Cafeteria

• May 26, 2025 - Schools Closed - Memorial Day

• June 5, 2025 - Davies 8th Grade B-B-Q at the Cove (Rain Date - June 6, 2025)

• June 12, 2025 - 8th Grade Awards Night - 5:00 p.m. - Davies School Cafeteria

• June 17, 2025 - 8th Grade Celebration Ceremony - 4:00 p.m. - Oakcrest High School

• June 25, 2025 - Board of Education Meeting 5:15 (Executive Session) 5:45 p.m. (Regular Session) - Davies School Cafeteria