May 2025 Insider.pdf

The Edison Township Public Schools Insider A Message from Dr. Aldarelli The Edison Township Education Foundation A Message from Shannon Peng Vision 2030 Strategic Plan Stay Connected

Legacy Pass Our Schools

Lincoln Elementary School Lindeneau Elementary School Martin Luther King Elementary School Menlo Park Elementary School Washington Elementary School Woodbrook Elementary School

A Message from Dr. Aldarelli, Superintendent of Schools Every role, every voice, every day - you are what makes Edison strong.

This week, we proudly celebrate Teacher and Nurse Appreciation —a meaningful opportunity to honor the remarkable individuals who dedicate themselves each day to educating and caring for our students. To our teachers , thank you for creating spaces where curiosity is sparked, challenges are embraced, and every student is encouraged to grow. Your work shapes not only academic outcomes, but the confidence and future of every learner you reach. To our nurses , thank you for offering comfort, care, and expertise when it’s needed most. You provide calm in moments of uncertainty and serve as trusted anchors for our school communities. To our staff across every role, thank you for the commitment and heart you bring to our schools each day. From leadership to support services, each of you helps create an environment where students can succeed. To our parents and guardians , thank you for your partnership, trust, and continued support. Your voice helps guide our progress and strengthen our community. To our students , thank you for showing up with energy, ideas, and determination. You inspire everything we do. This week and every week, we are grateful. Together, you represent the heart of our district, and the reason we remain committed to supporting, uplifting, and empowering every learner. SAGES Your paragraph text

Help us celebrate! Use this link or scan the QR code to share a message of appreciation through our Staff Shout-Out Form, open through May 31. Your kind words may be featured on our website or social media to help highlight the incredible people who make our schools shine - individual names will not be published .

Edison Township Education Foundation Kickoff Meeting! On May 1, we held our first Edison Township Education Foundation (ETEF) Interest Meeting. Spreading the word and getting more people involved is how we build something meaningful together. More meetings are coming soon. Visit our website to watch the presentation and join the interest registry. See more on the next page. The SKY IS THE LIMIT . . . IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES ETEF #

Reminder: Schools and offices will be closed on Friday, May 23 (unused emergency day), and Monday, May 26 for Memorial Day. Enjoy the long weekend!

I invite all students, families, and staff to take part in our Community Progress Survey, which will open the last week through mid-June. Each group will receive a tailored survey to share feedback on school experiences, areas of growth, and progress this year. Your voice helps guide what comes next. Watch your email and school platforms for the survey link!

Introducing The Edison Township Education Foundation!

The Edison Township Education Foundation is a new initiative dedicated to supporting student success, sparking innovation, and enhancing educational opportunities across our schools.

We’re inviting families, alumni, community members, and businesses to be part of this next step forward for Edison schools. Your ideas, talents, and involvement can help shape a foundation that opens new doors for students and strengthens our

schools for years to come. Ways to Get Involved:

BE A PART OF SOMETHING GREAT! Help shape the future of the Edison Township Education Foundation from the very beginning. Your voice, ideas, and involvement will help establish a lasting legacy of support for our students and schools across our community. While the Foundation works in partnership with Edison Township Public Schools, it will operate as an independent nonprofit, recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization with its own leadership and mission. Express interest in serving as a trustee or volunteer Share your voice and professional expertise Explore partnership or sponsorship opportunities Stay connected and informed as the Foundation grows Register Today! Scan the code, or visit our website: https://www.edison.k12.nj.us/page/edison-township-education-foundation ETEF

A Message from Shannon Peng, Chair of Community Relations & Curriculum Committees

As a Board of Education member for the past nine years, I’m proud to share that this is the fifth straight year with a $0 increase in school taxes for all Edison taxpayers . At the same time, the Board of Education invested in multi-million-dollar projects -

expanding classrooms and labs, upgrading facilities (including air conditioning, gyms, auditoriums, and athletic fields), and strengthening both academic programs and extracurricular opportunities.

A Proven Record of Fiscal Responsibility

The District achieved this by cutting waste, preventing fraud, and planning carefully alongside our outstanding administration team. In Edison, fiscal responsibility isn’t just a promise - it’s a proven track record reflected on your tax bill, year after year.

A Personal Reflection for Teacher Appreciation Month

2025 Community Relations/ Parent Advisory Committee Members Shannon Peng, Chair Anjana Patel Jerry Shi Virginia White

As the Chair of the Communications Committee, our team is committed to fostering collaboration, amplifying the voices of our families, and ensuring that our schools meet the needs of our diverse community and inspire every student to achieve their fullest potential. Both of my parents are teachers. I grew up watching the quiet sacrifices, the long nights, and the deep love that goes into this work . . . teaching is more than a profession - it’s a calling . To our wonderful educators, thank you for your passion, patience, and for believing in every child . You light up the future for all of us.

BOE Website

A Message from Shannon Peng, Chair of Community Relations & Curriculum

Committees Progress in Action

Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of what the Board of Education and District Administration have accomplished together. These milestones represent more than just numbers or buildings. They reflect our shared commitment to giving every student the tools, spaces, and support they deserve. Some Highlights From Over the Last Five Years

Opened Edison Success Academy as an in-district alternative high school, providing tailored support for students while saving the district millions of dollars in out-of- district costs Expanded classrooms and office spaces at Lincoln School, Thomas Jefferson Middle School (TJMS), and JP Stevens High School Constructed new gyms at all four middle schools Renovated auditoriums and athletic fields at both high schools Installed new lockers in two high schools and two middle schools Upgraded kitchens at Herbert Hoover Middle School and John Adams Middle School. Installed air conditioning in all elementary school common areas Restored full-day kindergarten across the district

2025 Community Relations/ Parent Advisory Committee Members Shannon Peng, Chair Anjana Patel Jerry Shi Virginia White

Launched a new science curriculum at the elementary level Doubled music and world language offerings in all four middle schools Introduced the Bio-Medical Academy at JP Stevens Launched Computer Science Academies at both Edison High School and JP Stevens Doubled enrollment in STEM programs districtwide

BOE Website

A Message from Shannon Peng, Chair of Community Relations & Curriculum Committees

Ongoing and Upcoming Initiatives

Classroom expansions underway at Edison High School, John Marshall Elementary, and James Madison Intermediate Bidding for the John Marshall Elementary expansion opened on April 25, 2025 and are in process for BOE approval Construction of new softball fields at both high schools Subscription busing available for all students in need Launch of districtwide project to install air conditioning in all schools beginning with two elementary schools. Development and rollout of 10+ new academic and trade-focused pathways to expand student opportunities

Free At-Home Tutoring for All Students Edison Township Public Schools is proud to offer free academic support to help students succeed. Through our partnership with Varsity Tutors, students have access to 24/7, on-demand chat tutoring for all subjects, along with SAT prep resources. Students can connect with live tutors anytime, submit essays for feedback, join enrichment classes, and explore self-paced study tools to support academic growth. To get started, students simply log in to their Classlink account and click the Varsity Tutors icon. LEARN MORE ON OUR WEBSITE

LEGACY PASS Our Senior Citizens are the WHY in LEGACY

Legacy Passes will be available for pickup beginning July 1 at the Education Center and community sites that will be shared in June.

The Edison Legacy Pass is an initiative designed to recognize and celebrate our senior citizens, whose steady support, contributions, and connection to education continue to inspire our schools and community.

This pass will offer resident senior citizens complimentary admission to a wide variety of in-district events, performances, and programs throughout the year. Eligible Events Include: School plays and musical productions Home athletic games Special ceremonies and recognition events Community-based programs hosted in our schools

VISION 2030 Strategic Plan

Our new North Star Statement serves as a bridge between our vision and mission—grounding our work in purpose and guiding every step forward as we shape the future of Edison Township Public Schools. Empowering learners to shape the world with knowledge, purpose, and passion.

Our Strategic Plan is more than a document. It’s a living framework guiding the work across our schools. We invite you to visit the Strategic Plan Dashboard to see our real-time progress toward district goals and priorities

he new North Star Statement serves as a bridge between our vision and mission—grounding our work in purpose and guiding every step forward as we shape the future of Edison Township Public Schools.

Learn More On Our Website

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AI Chatbot, designed to provide instant answers and informational support. As we continue “training our AI,” your feedback is essential! Please use the feedback link provided under each response to help us improve. Our website chatbot is designed to provide instant answers and informational support. As we continue “training our AI,” your feedback is essential! Please use the feedback link provided under each response to help us improve.

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Our Schools In This Issue: Menlo Park Elementary School Lincoln Elementary School Lindeneau Elementary School Martin Luther King Elementary School

Washington Elementary School Woodbrook Elementary School

First Grade

First grade students and their families gathered for a special Reading Under the Stars Night. The evening featured camping themed read alouds, a cozy campfire reading area where students could enjoy books with their families and special treats provided by the ETEA. The night was a big success, with students lighting up the night with their flashlights as they discovered new stories and shared their favorites with friends and family.

Penguin Day

Odyssey of the Mind

Congratulations to our OM Teams!

Kindergarteners met Captain Jack from Jenkinson’s Aquarium! He is a 10-year-old South African penguin.

Team 5 AstronOMical Odyssey

Team 3 Cooking with Books Tanvi Tara Malav Raya

Krishna Aaditri Annika Srikanyaa Aarna Vihana Neev

Naksh Aaisha Anika

Mighty Mutt Market

The Mighty Mutt Market is a student-run school store operated by the talented learners in the LLD-S and MD classes! The students took on roles of shopkeepers, selling a variety of fun items to their peers in kindergarten through fifth grade. Thanks to the support of our school community at Menlo Park, the debut of the Mighty Mutts Market was a tremendous success!

Team 3

Team 5

LINCOLN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LINCOLN LION NEWS

PTO Science Fair – Grades 3-5 Lincoln School’s The PTO hosted their 1st annual Science Fair which was open for all students in grades 3-5. Students were able to showcase their creativity and curiosity in the world of science. The evening’s event was a great success! Our winners were: 1st Place – S. Pansari (5th grade) for her Biodegradable Plastics made from Banana Peels 2nd Place – K. Ilayanambi (5th grade) for her Automatic Plant Watering System.

Orchestra Concert

Student Council In celebration of Earth Day, Lincoln School’s Student Council raised money to purchase a tree.

Lincoln School’s Orchestra performance led by Dr. Krasnokutsky.

The Cereal Box Challenge

Our Student Council collected over 150 cereal boxes to be donated to a local food pantry, Hands of Hope and our Lincoln families in need. Student Council members created a domino train with the cereal boxes.

Upcoming Events May 21 - Von Thun’s Farm (1st grade trip) May 22 - Bowlero (3rd grade trip) May 22 - 5th Grade Dance May 28 - Somerset Patriots (5th grade trip) May 29 - Choir Concert May 30 - Turtle Back Zoo (2nd grade trip) May 30 - Eyes of the Wild (4th grade field day)

LINCOLN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL LINCOLN LION NEWS

Recycle My Battery Our Student Council promoted a district- wide initiative to recycle batteries correctly so they do not end up in landfills. Lincoln School recycled over 4,500 batteries. Mrs. Napoliello’s class collected 3,400 to win a pizza party for the class.

Garden Club The Lincoln Garden Club is in full-swing! We are spreading wood chips which the Edison Public Works crew supplied. We have started peppers and tomatoes. Sweet potato slips and a variety of herbs have also been growing in the window sills around school. Other grades will start planting eggplant, okra, bottle gourds, and long beans which have been supplied by a student's family. Students are bringing in compostable kitchen scraps to add to the compost bins. Soil, hoses and tools have been provided through Donors Choose projects.

Read Across America Various members of our community: police officers, retired teachers, board members and Rutgers Men’ Lacrosse Team volunteered their time to read to Lincoln students.

Pajama Reading Night

Grade 5 Engineering Project Mrs. Campbell’s class took on the challenge of repurposing materials to solve problems. Working in teams, students identified problems in our school, brainstormed solutions and sketched designs for useful products made from recycled materials. Students brought their ideas to life, creating a prototype, and worked on a pitch to present their products. Products were pitched Shark Tank style and groups received feedback. Click here for photos.

Parents and children spent an evening at Lincoln’s Camp Read- A-Lot where they enjoyed stories, crafts and games. Children were invited to wear their pajamas. Clifford the Big Red Dog made a surprise visit to every classroom! Click here for photos.

Creativity is our superpower! Lindeneau superheros have been hard at work using their amazing imagination and outstanding critical thinking skills to design innovative solutions for real-world challenges. Our creativity has taken us to new heights as we explore the endless what-ifs in our world and beyond. Whether it’s Creative and Critical Thinking class, Innovation Club, monthly 3-D printing challenges, or while applying our skills to any other situation, Lindeneau Tigers know that ANYTHING is possible! INNOVATION IN ACTION THE POWER OF PBSIS Lindeneau Elementary has had an exciting year with our PBSIS initiative, fostering a culture of respect, responsibility, and safety! Students have been earning capes, shields, and crests for our mascot, Stripes, by demonstrating positive behaviors. We kicked off the year with two high-energy assemblies featuring former Lindeneau students, the Edison High School cheerleaders, and the Edison High School drum line, inspiring our students to be their best. Throughout the year, we've celebrated positive behavior with fun incentives, including raffles, themed spirit days, and recognition events. Together, we're building a supportive and encouraging school community! Our school recently completed the One School, One Book initiative with The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate, chosen for its emotional depth and themes of kindness, courage, and finding your voice. The story sparked meaningful discussions, creative projects, and a shared love of reading across our community. As a special finale, we welcomed author and educator John Schu, who brought the book to life through an inspiring presentation and generous book signings for students. This experience reminded us of the power of stories to unite, heal, and inspire. We are incredibly grateful to Mr. Schu for his visit and to everyone who helped make The One and Only Ivan a memorable journey for our school community. We can’t wait to see what our next reading adventure will be! ONE BOOK,ONE SCHOOL

Our Lindeneau Super Leaders kicked off this year’s PBSIS Initiative with messages about being respectful, responsible, and safe.

Lindeneau’s Future Engineers at Work: Tigers Take on 3-D Printing and LEGO Design!

In November and March, Lindeneau Elementary School hosted its FreeCycle Event, a community- driven initiative that encouraged sustainability and generosity. Families had the opportunity to browse and take home donated clothing, household goods, and other essentials—all at no cost. This event not only helped provide for those in need but also reinforced the importance of reusing and repurposing items. The Lindeneau community came together to support one another, making the event a true success. LINDENEAU FREECYCLES

CAREER DAY 2025

Career Day was a huge success! Our students had the incredible opportunity to engage with professionals from a variety of fields, gaining insight and inspiration for their futures. A big thank you to our guest speakers for sharing their time and experiences, and to our staff for making this event possible. Watching our students light up with curiosity and excitement was truly rewarding!

LIGHTING THE WAY The Culture Club is a group of dedicated students that aim to celebrate the uniqueness of our community. The Culture Club's big event was the Festival of Lights, where students learned how light brings our Lindeneau community together through different celebrations and festivities. THE STUDENT COUNCIL SOUP-ER BOWL FAMILY ENGAGEMENT This year, Lindeneau’s family events have created meaningful opportunities for our community to come together, learn, and make lasting memories. We kicked off with vibrant celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month and Black History Month, where families enjoyed dancing, delicious food, and student projects from every grade level. At Literacy Night, we partnered with the Edison Public Library to explore reading strategies, sip hot cocoa, and create festive gingerbread crafts. Later in the year, we embarked on a hands-on mathematical journey during our All Aboard Math Night , where families engaged in fun and interactive math activities.These family-centered events truly highlight the heart of Lindeneau School—where learning, culture, and community come together in unforgettable ways. Lindeneau's Student Council members led the annual “Soup-er Bowl” canned food drive by partnering with the local food bank, Replenish , and organizing a school-wide collection of donations. They dedicated their recess time to creating flyers, making announcements, and visiting classrooms to promote the drive and encourage participation. Their leadership helped collect over one thousand canned goods, making a meaningful impact on families in need.

The Edison Public Library supporting Lindeneau’s Literacy Night.

Ms. Duran shows off her cultural dress at Hispanic Heritage Night.

Audience members listen attentively to students presenting at the wax museum.

Students celebrating with their handmade lanterns.

Lindeneau’s Student Council officers and members of the local food bank give a thumbs-up to another successful Soup-er Bowl event!

The Blue Lion’’s Den

Principal: Ms. Paparsenos Assistant Principal: Mrs. Dettelbach

Year at a Glance What a fantastic year it’s been at Martin Luther King Elementary School so far! We kicked things off with creativity on Dot Day, carved out fun at Pumpkin Carving Night, had a virtual visit with author Adam Rubin, and came together for an important cause during the Breast Cancer Awareness Walk. Students sang their hearts out at the Holiday Sing Along and Winter Concert, celebrated culture during the Lunar New Year Parade, and showed off their smarts at the School-Wide Science Fair. We kept the excitement going with Read Across America Week, the Math-A- Thon, Breakfast with the Best, and the inspiring Evening of the Arts. As we head into the final stretch of the school year, we’re looking forward to more memorable moments with the Autism Acceptance Walk, Color Run, Book Mobile Visit, Kindergarten Tea, and Field Day. It’s been a joyful and enriching journey so far, and the best is yet to come!

Read Across America Week Read Across America Week was a truly inspiring celebration of literacy, imagination, and community! This year’s theme, “Always Room to Bloom,” reminded us that every reader has the potential to grow and thrive. Throughout the week, students and staff embraced the joy of reading with a fun-filled Spirit Week and engaging activities designed to spark curiosity and connection. Our halls were alive with creativity during the Book Setting Challenge, and the MLK Giving Tree blossomed with heartfelt book reviews written by our students. One of the highlights of the week was our school-wide Drop Everything and Read Day, where classes buddied up to enjoy some quiet reading time together. Many also partnered to participate in crafting or community-building activities, strengthening the bonds between students across grade levels. Another memorable moment was Guest Reader Day, when members of our local community, district staff, and families of our teachers came in to share their favorite books and stories with our students. We are especially grateful to KPMG and the volunteers from the Rutgers Accounting Honor Society, who visited classrooms to read aloud and donate a book to every single student in our school. Their generous gift brought smiles to so many faces and will help foster a lifelong love of reading. Thank you to everyone who helped make this week so meaningful—we’re truly thankful for our supportive and generous community!

Congratulations MLK Teams!! Congratulations to our three amazing Odyssey of the Mind teams for their incredible performances at both the Regional and State Tournaments! We’re so proud to share that all three teams have qualified for the World Finals in Michigan, taking place from May 21st to May 24th. Best of luck to our creative problem-solvers—you’ve already made us so proud!

ONE BOOK, ONE SCHOOL As part of our annual One Book, One School initiative, students and staff joined together to read Jasmine Toguchi, Mochi Queen by Debbi Michiko Florence. This fun and heartwarming story follows

Jasmine, a spirited eight-year-old who is determined to join her family’s mochi-making tradition—even if it means breaking a few rules. All students received their own copy of the book, which is the first in an 8-book series.

Debbi Michiko florence visits W.e.s. Debbi Michiko Florence is a third-generation Japanese American author celebrated for her engaging stories that highlight themes of friendship, family, and cultural identity. She has written over 25 books for children and tweens. In the book, Jasmine’s family celebrates a special tradition of making mochi together. WES students entered a contest sharing their family’s favorite food and why it’s special to them. Some lucky students even won lunch with the author!

Are you interested in giving your child the gift of bilingualism? Join us for our Dual Language Information Session to learn more about this enriching program for incoming kindergarten students! Check out our website here. May 13th @ 6PM DuaL Language INformation Night

MOCHI TASTING With curious smiles and eager hands, our students explored the chewy texture and sweet flavors of mochi, learning

about its cultural significance while enjoying the unique treat.

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We had a wonderful evening celebrating the incredible diversity that makes WES so special! Our hallways came alive

as families shared cultural experiences, stories, pictures, artifacts, traditional clothing, and more— giving our students a glimpse into the rich traditions from around the world and across the U.S. From country stations set up by community members, to delicious food and lively dance, this night was a powerful reminder of how every cultural experience shapes our students' understanding of the world.

ART SHOW Our school was buzzing with artistic energy during this year’s Annual Art Show, brilliantly curated by Mrs. Conte and brought to life by our incredibly talented K-5 students! The hallways transformed into vibrant galleries, showcasing a stunning variety of student artwork that left everyone inspired. Adding a unique twist to the evening, special guest Keith Drake amazed attendees with his jaw-dropping Etch-A-Sketch art, turning a childhood toy into a true artistic masterpiece. Meet Quinn Our students are all smiles each month as they welcome Quinn, the lovable therapy dog from Creature Comfort Pet Therapy! Quinn’s visits

Upcoming events

5/15...5th grade dance 5/15...Kindergarten Field Trip 5/16...Muffins With Mom 5/16...Chuck E. Cheese Event 5/30...Fun Day 6/04...Kindergarten Show 6/05...Donuts with Dad 6/11...Spring Concert 6/18...5th grade Farewell

bring comfort, joy, and calm to our school community, creating a space where students can relax, connect, and experience the power of a gentle, furry friend. These heartwarming visits are made possible through the generous support of the Marisa Tufaro Foundation, and we are so grateful for their continued partnership in supporting the well-being of our students.

WOODBROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Woodbrook’s Annual Science Invention Fair

Once again, Woodbrook Elementary School saw an impressive turnout at this year’s Science Invention Fair, with students showcasing their creativity and problem-solving skills. The event was a testament to the strong collaboration between parents and teachers in nurturing a love for science, as families worked together to support students in developing their ideas. Presenting their inventions not only strengthened students' public speaking skills and confidence but also encouraged them to think critically about real-world challenges. By fostering curiosity and teaching the scientific method, research skills, and disciplined inquiry, the fair provided a venue for young minds to explore solutions that could one day help save the environment and transform lives.

Woodbrook’s Got Talent Shines Bright! Woodbrook’s Got Talent was a joyful celebration of creativity, courage, and self-expression, showcasing the many unique gifts our students bring to the stage. From singing and dancing to comedy and instrumental performances, each act reflected the confidence and enthusiasm of our talented students. Participating in a talent show gives children the opportunity to build self- esteem, overcome stage fright, and share their passions with a supportive audience. Thank you to all the students who bravely performed and to the families who continue to nurture and encourage their children's growth—we are so proud of each and every one of you!

The 5th Grade Band participated in a Masterclass with Mr. Fossa from Woodrow Wilson in order to prepare for middle school band. Mrs. Buckelew surprised all of the 5th band members with encouraging personalized notes from the JPS Band. Striking the Right Chord: Meets Elementary Band Meets High School

WOODBROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL March 7 Was a Super Day of Fun at Woodbrook!

From books to bonding, March 7 was packed with joy and meaningful experiences at Woodbrook Elementary! We kicked off the day with our beloved Read Across America celebration—a big thank you to Mrs. Chonka and Mrs. Hanlon for organizing this treasured tradition. Students were thrilled by surprise guest readers, dressed up as their favorite book characters, participated in a school-wide read-aloud, and enjoyed dedicated hallway reading time. It was a day full of imagination and the pure joy of getting lost in a good story.

Pure Imagination Comes to Life at Woodbrook! Congratulations to the incredible cast of the Woodbrook Drama Club for their outstanding performance of Willy Wonka! Under the direction and production of Ms. Vallancourt and Ms. Foley, students dazzled the audience with their talent, energy, and commitment. Memorizing lines, songs, and choreography takes dedication and courage—and their hard work truly shined on stage. A special thank you goes to the 5th Grade Art Murals Club and their advisors, Ms. Walters and Ms. Burkhart, for designing and building the stunning sets that brought the magical world of Wonka to life. We’re also so grateful to our drama families for their unwavering support behind the scenes. Being part of a drama production builds confidence, enhances communication skills, and teaches the value of teamwork. Students learn to express themselves creatively and work collaboratively in a supportive environment—valuable lessons that extend well beyond the stage. The show was a sweet success, and we couldn’t be prouder of everyone who made it happen! Click to See Show!

WOODBROOK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Confident Voices, Capable Leaders Woodbrook’s fifth-grade students participated in a Youth Leadership Program through a Toastmasters Club experience, with advisor Ms. Elsaadawi, designed to build public speaking and leadership skills. In a supportive, student-led environment, participants delivered prepared speeches and rotated through leadership roles such as President, Timekeeper, Evaluator, and “Ah” Counter. Each session included peer feedback focused on content, delivery, timing, and speech habits, helping students grow in confidence and communication. This interactive program gave students valuable practice in speaking, listening, and constructive critique—skills that will serve them well in both academic and real-world settings.

Creative Minds Shine at Odyssey of the Mind! Congratulations to the Woodbrook Odyssey of the Mind team for earning 3rd place in the "Cooking with Books" challenge at the 2025 Gateway Regional Tournament in Sayreville! Their achievement in Division I reflects not only creativity and critical thinking, but also months of teamwork, problem- solving, and perseverance. Participating in Odyssey of the Mind helps students build valuable skills such as collaboration, time management, and innovative thinking—all while having fun and exploring imaginative solutions. A big thank you to the dedicated advisors, Ms. Roig and Ms. Kole, as well as the supportive families who helped make this experience possible. We are so proud of the team’s accomplishment and the effort they put into every step of the journey!

Junior Equity Champions: Leading with Kindness and Respect

This year, Woodbrook proudly launched a new student-led initiative—the Junior Equity Champions. Fourth and fifth grade students, selected by their homeroom teachers and trained by members of the Woodbrook Equity Team, took on the meaningful role of promoting empathy, kindness, and inclusion across our school. Each month, they visited kindergarten and first grade classrooms to lead discussions and activities focused on tone, respectful communication, and understanding others. Through this experience, Junior Equity Champions developed leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills while serving as positive role models for younger students. They learned the importance of empathy, active listening, and using their voices to create a more inclusive and respectful school community. This program not only empowered student leaders but also helped build a stronger, more connected Woodbrook for all.

Inspire.Innovate.Elevate. The Edison Township Public Schools Insider: Community Connection

#WeAreOneEdison

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