ELEMENTARY DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS ELEMENTARY DEPARTMENT HIGHLIGHTS
LEARNING THAT STICKS (AND SPLATTERS!) This year’s theme — “Throw the Playdoh on the Ceiling, Build It Together, Keep It Simple” — encouraged educators and students alike to embrace creativity, collaboration, and purposeful simplicity. From kindergarten to grade 5, classrooms buzzed with energy as learning came alive through hands-on, real-world experiences.
THINKING BIG K-5
All students across K–5 explored critical thinking units built around problem-based learning led by our Gifted and Talented Teachers. These projects challenged students to think deeply, ask questions, and solve complex problems — laying the groundwork for innovation and leadership.
SAY HELLO TO AI
BUILDING BILINGUAL BRILLIANCE
Teachers were introduced to artificial intelligence tools to enhance their instructional design. With support from instructional coaches and staff development trainers, they learned to create engaging lesson “hooks,” personalize instruction, and design hands-on learning applications using AI.
Our Dual Language Program continues to grow! It expanded through Grade 1 this year and will move into Grade 2 next year, offering students the incredible gift of developing literacy and fluency in two languages. Click HERE for more information!
REAL TALK AT LUNCH
STEM AND CREATIVITY
Big strides were made across the district this year: from a new teacher evaluation tool to a revised para evaluation system for next year. Principals and vice principals also participated in school-to-school visits to reflect, collaborate, and grow. And with our SEL training “It Begins With Us”, staff wellness stayed front and center — because thriving educators create thriving students.
Our Chief Academic Officer of Elementary visited seven schools to conduct lunch interviews with students in grades K–5. These casual conversations gave students a voice and provided authentic insight into what they love about school — and what they hope for next.
PLAY, WONDER, LEARN
TUTORING WITH IMPACT
With the support of a High Impact Tutoring Grant from the NJDOE, we launched targeted interventions that provided personalized, small-group instruction. This initiative has already made a measurable difference for many students working toward grade- level expectations.
Kindergarten teachers received training in the use of inquiry bins — a playful and developmentally appropriate approach to early learning. This strategy helps foster curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking in our youngest learners.
As we look ahead, let’s carry this momentum “Beyond Our Walls.” Let’s imagine learning that stretches past the desk, the schedule, and even the classroom. Our teachers laid the foundation—and next year, we grow it outward. ~ Baninder Goomer, Chief Academic Officer
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