March-April 'In-Review' Newsletter: Office of the Su...

March and April 'IN-REVIEW' NEWSLETTER Dear School Community,  I am always seeking perspective on how our District compares to other school communities—not just in academics, but in the "intangibles," specifically how well we foster a culture of respect, inclusivity and a welcoming environment. These insights often come from unique sources, such as substitute teachers and guest presenters. Since they work in many districts throughout Bergen County, they offer a rare vantage point on student behavior, respect, and core values. I am proud to share that over the past month, several of these individuals have reached out unsolicited to tell me what a pleasure it is to visit our schools. They noted that our students are welcoming, attentive, and down-to-earth, and that the added bonus of inclusivity and diversity in our classrooms makes our schools a pleasure to work in. In the words of "Nature Mark," who visits our schools annually to showcase his reptiles and other animals, "Your schools are a breath of fresh air." While there are times that can certainly get "interesting" here -after all, there are over 2,000 students in this district, but these outside perspectives serve as a great reminder that this is a wonderful place to work because of the people. Thank you for helping to make New Milford a strong and welcoming community. Below, you will find highlights of the many wonderful things happening across the District over the past month and a half. As you will see, our schools have been very busy, and there is much to be proud of. As always, your continued support is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Peter Galasso Superintendent of the New Milford Public Schools DISTRICT INFORMATION David E. Owens MS: Finding Nemo- SOLD OUT! The David E. Owens Middle School production of Finding Nemo was a resounding success! In a stellar directorial debut, New Milford alum Stelios Giannoulis led a cast of over 60 students to bring the beloved characters of Nemo, Marlin, and Dory to life. The production featured professional-grade puppetry, intricate scenery, and illuminated jellyfish, showcasing how this program continues to evolve each year. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to the families, students, and community members who attended to cheer on our young thespians; the energy of a large crowd truly makes the stage come alive. We are also deeply grateful to the teachers, support staff, set builders, and high school volunteers whose hard work and dedication made this performance possible.  District Budget Hearing: April 29, 2026 School districts across New Jersey are navigating significant budgetary hurdles, and New Milford is no different. Rising costs are impacting everyone; just as they place financial strain on households, they create similar challenges for our district. Please be assured that the administrative team and the Board of Education have spent months developing solutions aimed at minimizing the direct impact on our students and staff. The resilience of our educators and our community is a hallmark of New Milford, and I am confident that we will continue to move forward in our mission to provide a high-quality education for our students. The annual Board of Education budget hearing will be held on April 29th at 7:00pm. At this meeting, the 2026–2027 budget will be discussed in a public forum. We encourage your attendance and participation. NMPSD Teachers of the Year  Each year, Bergen County Schools participate in a rigorous selection process to name a Teacher of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes educators who represent the pinnacle of teaching excellence, leadership, and community impact. Our 2026 honorees are among the finest in the District, celebrated for their innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to their students. Please join us in celebrating this year’s winners, who will be officially honored at a county-wide luncheon this May:  Ms. Belits (top left) – B.F. Gibbs Elementary: A vibrant educator known for "outside the box" creativity. From "Math Olympics" to "glow parties," Ms. Belits builds genuine connections that make learning an unforgettable experience for every student. Mrs. Gitto (top right) – Berkley Street School: A true pillar of the Berkley community who treats every student as her own. Mrs. Gitto is a fierce advocate for all learners, securing grants for inclusive playground equipment and leading the school’s Character Education Assemblies. Mrs. Lee (bottom left) – David E. Owens Middle School: A 12-year DEO veteran and United Arts leader. Mrs. Lee is celebrated for transforming complex computer science into creative discovery—spanning robotics to AI—while championing school spirit and innovation. Mr. Luhrs (bottom right) – New Milford High School: A dedicated IBC educator and tireless advocate. Mr. Luhrs is recognized for fostering student independence and ensuring every learner is fully included and celebrated within the high school experience. Congratulations to these four outstanding professionals for their commitment to our students and the craft of teaching! Musical Theatre Nominations: Spring & Fall 2025  The musical and theatre programs in the New Milford School District are exceptional. This month we received the nominations for 3 different productions: Little Shop of Horrors (High School Musical), Frozen  (DEO Musical), and The Internet is Distracting-Oh look a kitten (High School Drama). The Montclair Theatre Night Awards, commonly known as the Foxy Awards or "The Foxys", are annual awards hosted by Montclair State University that recognize excellence in New Jersey high school and middle school theater. The awards, which include categories for plays, musicals, and technical theatre, are judged by theatre professionals and honor both student and educator performances. AWARDS & RECOGNITION: The New Milford School District remains dedicated to providing students and staff with opportunities for achievement that extend far beyond the classroom walls. Below, you will find a summary of the many accolades and honors our school community has earned over the past several months. Art teacher, Mrs. Katharina Grammer Shines So many of our teachers' passions combine with their outside passions. Katharina Grammer, an art teacher at Gibbs, has been named a Finalist in the 2026 New Jersey State Council on the Arts Individual Artist Fellowship program. Administered by Mid Atlantic Arts, the Fellowship program is one of the state's most prestigious honors for working artists. This year was particularly competitive, with the Council receiving 870 eligible applications across seven different artistic categories. The selection process involves a rigorous peer review by experts in the field. Out of nearly 900 applicants, only 100 artists were recommended for Fellowships, and an additional 98 artists—including Ms. Grammer—were selected for the Finalist award. The Finalist tier is reserved for artists whose work is determined to be of exceptionally high quality, standing out among hundreds of entries from across New Jersey. Mrs. Grammer is not just teaching art, she is living it.    7th grader, Theodora Perides, awarded College STEM Camp Grant  The future of STEM is looking bright at DEO Middle School! We are thrilled to announce that rising 8th-grader Theodora Perides has been selected to attend Tech Trek at Stockton University this summer.Tech Trek is an exclusive, week-long residential camp designed specifically for girls entering eighth grade. Hosted by AAUW New Jersey, the program’s mission is to empower young women to break stereotypes and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. Being chosen for Tech Trek is no small feat. Candidates are first nominated by their teachers and must then complete a comprehensive application and interview process. Over the weekend, the exciting news was confirmed: Theodora’s hard work and passion for STEM stood out among the pool of applicants. Thanks to the support of the AAUW, the program is virtually free. Ella Moy soldifies herself as one of the best spellers in N.J. In a display of exceptional academic skill and composure, Ella Moy secured a second-place finish at the 91st Annual North Jersey Spelling Bee this March. The prestigious event brought together an elite field of approximately 75 contestants from across Bergen County. Ranging from grades 3 through 8, each participant arrived as a champion of their respective school-wide competition, making the regional bee one of the most competitive academic arenas in the state. The North Jersey Spelling Bee serves as the primary regional qualifier for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. To reach this stage, students must demonstrate not only a mastery of orthography but also a deep understanding of word origins and linguistic patterns. Ella Moy’s second-place achievement distinguishes her as one of the top spellers in the region. Her performance throughout the numerous rounds was marked by steady confidence, outlasting scores of other school champions to reach the final podium. 6th Graders Hit High Note with North Jersey Honors Band Selection We are thrilled to announce that four of our standout 6th-grade musicians have been selected to participate in the prestigious North Jersey Elementary Honors Band and 6 other students have been selected to the Orchestra. This highly competitive festival brings together the premier young instrumentalists from across the region, and we are proud to have our school represented by: Kalley Desiderio – Clarinet, James Dubrowny – Bari Saxophone, Caitlyn Guerrero – Alto Saxophone, Ronan Mrnarevic – Euphonium. Selection for this festival is a significant honor. Students are nominated by their teachers and vetted against the top talent in  North Jersey. Of the many nominees, only two ensembles of approximately 80 students are formed. The experience will culminate on Saturday, May 9th, at Mount Olive Middle School. Our students will spend the day in intensive rehearsals and sectionals, led by expert clinicians and supported by nominating teachers, before performing in a grand finale concert that same afternoon.  The 6th grade Orchestra students that were chosen are: Jazper Phillips, Rohail Ahmed, Santiago Castillo, Stella Racelis, Samantha Ricourt, and Eliana Sanjay. This achievement is a testament to the hard work, daily practice, and musical growth of these four individuals. It also highlights the continued strength and excellence of our school’s music program.  NMHS Empty Bowls Fundraiser a Resounding Success! Students who participated in this year's Throw-A-Thon for Empty Bowls presented a check to volunteers from the food pantry at Ascension Church. Empty Bowls is a fundraiser in which students craft handmade pottery bowls and sell them with all-you-can-eat soup at one of the community's most beloved annual events. This year, the effort raised $2,478 and have now donated a total of $16,433 over the past eight years. We are grateful to the local businesses that continue to support us each year, especially Inserra (ShopRite of New Milford), our largest donor, as well as Soprano’s Pizza, Great Foods, and Big Jim's. Special thanks go to Mrs. Bruno, our culinary arts teacher, for her help at the event and for cooking with her students. We also thank The Ugly George Show for donating his time and music. This event would not be possible without our student volunteers, teachers, parents, alumni, and administrators. Finally, we would like to recognize the hard work that goes into running the food pantry and thank the volunteers who work year-round to serve those in need. Thank-you to all those who supported this fundraiser.    The 2026 Winter Athletic Season was a success: Honorees Below- The winter season proved to be successful as many of our athletes garnered all league and all county recognition in swmming, basketball, wrestling, competitive cheer, indoor track, and bowling. A list of accomplishments i s below.  INSIDE OUR SCHOOLS Day in Clay: Sponsored by NMEF Thanks to a generous donation from the New Milford Education Foundation, Berkley and Gibbs 5th grade students were able to create pottery through a program called ‘Day in Clay’. Day in Clay is an interactive, multicultural artist-in-residence program led by professional ceramic artist Cliff Mendelson. He teaches students the history of pottery and pottery-making techniques by guiding them in creating their own ceramic pieces, using air-dried clay to create vessels inspired by Native American, Greek, African, and Asian traditions. Faculty Team Hits Buzzer Beater in the DEO March Madness Tournament The DEO Student March Madness Tournament pitted the students versus the teachers in what became a very competitive game. Fortunately for the faculty and staff, Mr. DeLalla hit the game-winning shot with 4 seconds left to secure the victory. Though the adults narrowly escaped with a victory, the group of student athletes that competed were very talented. It was a fun event for all involved.  NJWEA Visits DEO- Environmental Education The NJ Water Environment Association (NJWEA) visited DEO to work with 7th-grade students through interactive education, conducting water treatment demos that show "contaminated" water getting cleaner. They promote environmental education through programs that teach students about wastewater, and they hold an annual essay contest for 7th and 8th graders to introduce them to local water infrastructure, which students of ours have won in the past. A Friendly Dog Visits Berkley School Berkley Street School recently had the pleasure of welcoming Ms. Virginia Baldassari and her therapy dog, Lola, for a special visit with our 4th and 5th-grade students, as well as students in our IBC and LLD classrooms. During their time together, students learned about the important role therapy dogs play and the many settings and communities they support. They also had the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions, interact with Lola, and enjoy some well-earned cuddles and pets. We look forward to welcoming them back for future visits so that more students can have the opportunity to learn about therapy dogs and how they support others. Of course, this would give us all more time to spend with Lola, the sweetest dog, who may have loved the attention just as much as the students!  'Vamos a Jugar' Visits Gibbs School "Vamos a Jugar" (Let's Play), a dynamic, bilingual assembly by Musiquita, was brought to school by Señora Curiel for students in grades 2–5. The high-energy performance, led by musicians Blanca González and Jesse Elder, blended Latin folk, classical, jazz, and original compositions. Musiquita’s unique fusion captivated students, who explored diverse cultures and learned Spanish vocabulary through interactive music. The engaging experience provided students with a creative and impactful way to connect with the Spanish language and Hispanic traditions. Other Information & Happenings Anti-Bias Symposium:   The New Milford Anti-Bias Symposium is a key community and educational event scheduled for May 20, 2026. Hosted by the New Milford Public School District, the symposium serves as a platform for students, educators, and community members to engage in dialogue regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. Approved 2026 - 2027 New Milford Public School District Calendar   The approved 2026–2027 New Milford School Calendar is available below. We kindly ask that you plan family vacations around scheduled recesses to ensure your child’s attendance remains consistent. Regular attendance is a vital component of academic achievement and is a strong predictor of long-term success beyond graduation. 2026 - 2027 New Milford District Calendar Junior / Senior Art Show Reception   Please see the attached flyer for the Jr. and Sr. Art Show invitation at the Art Center of Northern NJ. The flyer under 'Upcoming Events' is a digital painting made by junior Sa'Leya Huggins who is a featured artist in the show.  Come support her and our other student artists on April 30th. The art show is right here in New Milford on Center Street. Please Mark your Calendars: School is open 5/22 and 5/26 The District used two snow days this year and because of this the 'black out' days scheduled around Memorial Day vacation are 'in-session' days.. School wil be open May 22nd and May 26th. The District is still closed May 25th to observe Memorial Day.  UPCOMING EVENTS:  (visit the school webpages for more specific information) Upcoming Events April 23:      World Language Honor Society Induction                    (NMHS - 7:00pm) April 27:      Short Session for Students April 29:      BOE Meeting (Budget Hearing): 7:00pm April 30:      NMHS Art Show Reception (see right) May 6:         BOE Meeting (Work Session): 7:00pm May 13:        BOE Meeting (Regular): 7:00pm May 15 :       Pevny/Savino Scholarship BBQ: NMHS May 20 :      Anti-Bias Symposium: NMHS-6:00pm May 25 :      Schools Closed- Memorial Day   Pevny/Savino Scholarship Donation Form Link COMMUNITY BACKPACK If you are interested in more upcoming events and happenings taking place in the New Milford Community please be on the lookout for the "Community Backpack" emails that are sent out through parent square regularly. Community Backpack Link (log in required)

Wednesday, Apr 22 2026

February 'In-Review' Newsletter: Office of the Super...

FEBRUARY 'IN-REVIEW' NEWSLETTER Dear School Community,  It has certainly been a winter to remember. The storm spanning Sunday, February 22nd, into Monday, February 23rd, brought one of the most significant snowfalls our region has experienced in over a decade. 100% of Bergen County schools were closed on Monday the 23rd, and 63% of K-12 School Districts remained closed on Tuesday the 24th. I am proud to say that our school district was one of the Districts that were able to resume classes on Tuesday with just a two-hour delay. This achievement is a direct result of the hard work and resilience of many. I want to extend a sincere thank-you to the New Milford DPW and our District Buildings and Grounds staff for their tireless efforts clearing roads, parking lots, and sidewalks. Opening on Tuesday simply would not have been possible without them moving a massive amount of snow. I am also grateful to the Police Department for managing traffic patterns, our residents for clearing their sidewalks, and our faculty and staff, many of whom traveled from across the county, to be here for our students. It was a true community effort that put the resiliency of our town on full display. Resuming school on Tuesday was also vital for maintaining the integrity of our District Calendar. It is a state requirement for public schools to be in session a minimum of 180 days. To ensure this, the District builds into the calendar 3 'emergency days', which we have now utilized 2 of those 3 days. Consequently, the "black-out" days surrounding Memorial Day weekend are no longer available. We have one emergency day remaining in our "bank," which will be used if absolutely necessary. Please be aware that if we exceed our remaining day, makeup days will be scheduled during Spring Break—an outcome we are working hard to avoid. If our final emergency day remains unused, it will be "given back" on June 21st, effectively making our final day of school June 19th. I have attached the updated 2025 –2026 School Calendar for your reference.  2025 - 2026 New Milford Public School District Calendar Below, you will find highlights of the many wonderful things happening across the District over the past month. As you will see, our schools have been very busy, and there is much to be proud of. As always, your continued support is greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Peter Galasso Superintendent of the New Milford Public Schools DISTRICT INFORMATION New Milford High School Musical: Legally Blonde New Milford High School is proud to present our spring musical,  Legally Blonde, on Thursday, March 5th, Friday, March 6th, and Saturday, March 7th at 7:00 PM in the NMHS James Africano Auditorium! Based on the hit Broadway musical and beloved movie,  Legally Blonde follows Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, chases her dreams, and proves that determination and heart can change everything. Filled with high-energy dance numbers, powerful vocals, and plenty of humor, this is a show you won’t want to miss!  Our talented cast and crew, which comprises 55 amazing student-thespians, will be joined by a live pit orchestra. Everyone has been working tirelessly to bring this fun, empowering production to life, and we are so excited to share it with our community. Tickets are available now at:  www.nmhsmusicals.com (We encourage you to purchase tickets in advance, as seating is limited and performances are expected to sell out quickly. You can also save $5 per ticket by purchasing early!) Please come out and support our incredible students for a night of music, laughter, and pink-powered fun. This is a musical the whole family can enjoy.  Thursday, March 5th will be a "Pink Out"—please wear as much pink as you can to the performance! Celebrating Rare Disease Day: February 28, 2026 Rare Disease Day is a global, patient-led initiative held annually on the last day of February to raise awareness for the over 300 million people worldwide living with 7,000 rare diseases. Established in 2008, its purpose is to advocate for better equity in healthcare, access to diagnosis, and promote empathy and understanding. This year our District celebrated Rare Disease Day on Friday, February 27th by wearing black and white. Teachers created special activities, read from books and Middle School science and art teachers created a cross curricular activity combining art and science. Pictured below; Ms. Catalano and the Science teachers from DEO teamed up with Mr. Muratore, the art teacher, to create a montage embedded with the Rare Disease Day colors.  March 19: Schools Closed - Eid al-Fitr  The District will be closed for students on Thursday, March 19, in observance of Eid al-Fitr, the end of Ramadan. Although our students will not be in session, our faculty and administrators will participate in Professional Development to refine and strengthen our instructional practices. As Eid al-Fitr continues through Friday, March 20, students observing the holiday on that day may receive an excused absence if a parent provides a note citing the religious observance to the school office. AWARDS & RECOGNITION: The New Milford School District remains dedicated to providing students and staff with opportunities for achievement that extend far beyond the classroom walls. Below, you will find a summary of the many accolades and honors our school community has earned over the past several months. Competitive Cheer: All State Athletes We are thrilled to announce that seniors  Sophia Santelli and Colleen Willis have been named to the New Jersey Cheerleading & Dance Coaches Association (NJCDCA) 2025–2026 All-State Teams . Following a rigorous evaluation by a panel of professional judges, Sophia was selected for the All-State First Team, and Colleen was selected for the All-State Second Team. Given the highly competitive nature of the NJCDCA selection process and the large pool of talented candidates statewide, this is a remarkable accomplishment. We are incredibly proud of the dedication, skill, and hard work these athletes have invested into competitive cheerleading.   Unsung Hero Award - Emely Garzon Cabrera It is a distinct honor to celebrate  Emely Garzon Cabrera as the New Milford High School Unsung Hero Award Recipient . After transferring to the United States at the start of her junior year, Emely navigated the triple challenge of a new school, a new country, and a new language with grace. Her progress has been nothing short of remarkable; from day one, she has modeled tireless determination and ambition. After finishing her junior year with academic excellence, Emely earned a spot in our competitive internship program, where her maturity and professionalism have made her a standout asset in the healthcare field. We are incredibly proud of Emely’s resilience and her unwavering drive to succeed. Emely will be honored at the Bergen County Unsung Hero Awards ceremony on March 4th at Becton Regional High School.  1st Place: Ian Lee NJ HOSA Northern Regionals HOSA – Future Health Professionals is an international organization dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in the healthcare industry through competitive events, leadership development, and scholarship opportunities. We are proud to announce that junior  Ian Lee has secured 1st place in the Dental Terminology category at the NJ HOSA Northern Regional Conference for the second consecutive year. Ian is no stranger to elite competition; last year, he represented New Milford at the HOSA National Leadership Conference in Tennessee. We wish him the best of luck as he advances to the HOSA NJ State Competition this March!   "What does Service to Our Country Mean?" DEO Advances to the State Level In the 2025–2026 Elks Americanism Essay Contest, students explored the theme, 'What does service to your country mean to you?' Their reflections highlighted that service extends far beyond military duty—encompassing personal responsibility, community action, and everyday gestures like volunteering or voting.  We are incredibly proud to announce that of the 12 essays selected from the county to move on to the state level, 6 were written by David E. Owens Middle School students. While we are impressed by their exceptional writing skills, we are even more moved by their profound understanding of what it means to serve our country. We are very proud of the following students (pictured below from left to right):  Zoila Lucas Duarte, Rebecca Lian, Gabe Remoroza, Artharrv Baheti, Lorenzo DaCosta, and Mateo Valencia   DEO's Matthew Phillips Accepted into The Julliard School The Juilliard Pre-College program is a rigorous, conservatory-style Saturday program for exceptionally talented students ages 8–18. As one of the most prestigious and sought-after music programs in the world, it provides comprehensive training to prepare young artists for elite college-level study. We are proud to announce that Matthew Phillips has been accepted into this highly selective, tuition-free program. His admission is a remarkable testament to his talent and dedication. In fact, Matthew’s success is already being recognized; he can be seen featured in the current Juilliard brochure (pictured in the second row on the right). N.J. Devils Most Valuable Teacher (MVT) Nominee: NMHS's Ms. Bonnie Taylor The Future Goals Most Valuable Teacher of the Year is a prestigious award sponsored by the NHL, honoring educators across the U.S. and Canada who bring STEM to life using hockey-themed digital curricula. As part of the Future Goals initiative, the winner is determined by public vote and announced during Teacher Appreciation Week. We need your help to support our nominee, Ms. Bonnie Taylor, our business teacher at the High School. Please see image to the right for voting details and join us in cheering on our "MVT." Winter Season Highlights in Athletics As the winter season draws to a close, the New Milford Knights have plenty of reasons to celebrate. Our athletes have pushed boundaries and rewritten the history books. Jeremy Friedberg (top left) showcased his strength by qualifying for the State Meet of Championships in shot put, while junior Hanah Belthoff (top right) qualified in the high jump, a feat made even more impressive by the school record she set earlier this season. Both of these student-athletes will travel to Ocean Breeze to compete at the state level on March 8th.  The record-breaking didn’t stop there. In the swimming pool, Santino Ermita (bottom right) set a new school record in the 50-meter freestyle with a lightning-fast time of 22.5 seconds. Meanwhile, on the bowling lanes, junior Layal Grund (bottom left) dominated the competition, bowling a 275 to claim the highest female score in New Milford history. Congratulations to all our Knights on a stellar season!  NJIC Coach of the Year (2 consecutive years): Mrs. Emily Correa The 2025-2026 New Milford High School Swimming team, in a successful co-op with Waldwick, enjoyed an outstanding season, competing for a league championship right down to the final meet and hosting a state swim meet for the first time in school history. Led by coaches Emily Correa and Christina Cusmano, both dedicated educators within the New Milford School District, the program pushed student-athletes to achieve new personal bests and shatter school records, like Santino Ermita did just weeks ago. Given the team's success, it is no surprise that for the second consecutive year, Coach Emily Correa has earned the respect of her colleagues and the NJIC athletic conference. We are proud to announce that Mrs. Correa has been named the NJIC Coach of the Year for swimming in recognition of her exceptional leadership this season. INSIDE OUR SCHOOLS Play Unified:  NMHS Athletic initiative Play Unified is more than just a sports program; it’s a powerful initiative dedicated to social inclusion. By bringing together students with disabilities and their general education peers, the program fosters deep empathy and lasting friendships through the universal language of sports. Whether it’s on the track, at the bowling alley, or on the court, these shared athletic experiences are breaking down social barriers for our students. We are incredibly proud of our New Milford Knights, who recently secured a hard-fought victory against Pompton Lakes! Congratulations to the athletes, partners, and coaches who make this program a success. Pictured here are several team members alongside our Director of Special Services, Mrs. Eileen Horn. Young Expressions Regional High School Art Show Mrs. Finizia, New Milford High School Art Teacher, recently collaborated with the Art Center of Northern New Jersey to host the Young Expressions Regional High School Art Show, a vibrant celebration of talented young artists from across Bergen County. The exhibition featured works from 16 local high schools, including New Milford. We are proud to announce that Hailey Smith received an Honorable Mention in the Digital Art category. The show was juried by renowned artist and educator Will Robertson, with prizes generously provided by Blick Art Materials. Pictured to the left is Mrs. Finizia and Hailey.  Empty Bowls; Ceramics Meets Community Service The NMHS pottery students had a great time at the annual Throw-A-Thon, throwing on the wheel (sculpting bowls out of clay) to create 200 ceramic bowls for the Empty Bowls fundraiser! The School community is proud of their hard work, talent, and generosity. All funds raised support the food pantry at Ascension Church. The Empty Bowls Event is scheduled for March 13 in the NMHS cafeteria — save the date!  New Milford High School offers Ceramics I and Ceramics II (more advanced) to our students. Pictured right is Senior Yoelis Mendez posing with one of her hand crafted bowls.  NMHS Cupcake Wars Cupcake Wars took over the kitchen! Our culinary arts students went head-to-head in a sweet competition. Huge congratulations to Mrs. Bruno, the NMHS Culinary Arts teacher, for creating such a creative and exciting project that had the entire school buzzing and voting. Pictured left is the the Cupcake Ski Lodge design, which was this years winner. New Milford High School offers to levels of culinary courses; International Foods and Culinary Arts, both of which are sought after electives from the student body.   Read Across America: March 2, 2026 - Berkley and Gibbs Launched in 1998 by the National Education Association, Read Across America is the nation’s largest reading initiative. While officially celebrated on March 2nd to honor Dr. Seuss’s birthday, the program aims to inspire a year-round love of literacy in children and teens. This year, Berkley and Gibbs Elementary Schools welcomed parents, High School students, community leaders, and school personnel to share their favorite stories with students. The event featured a variety of guest readers and literary picks: The Mayor arrived in his iconic Dr. Seuss hat to read Fox in Socks , while Board of Education member Mrs. Moore shared the inspiring message of Say Something . From Councilman Seymour’s reading of Children Make Terrible Pets to the Superintendent’s classic choice of The Giving Tree , the day was a testament to the power of a good story. The goal of course is to show children that the love of reading never stops, but it also reminds the guest readers that reading a simple book to a group of wide eyes elementary students can be absolutely refreshing. A sincere thank-you to  the Media Specialists, Mrs. Oliviero and Ms. Knudsen, who organized the logistics of the day. Also a special thanks to all our guest readers and the Principals for opening their doors to the community for this wonderful event. Pictured above: Mayor Putrino and Mrs. Moore (top left); Superintendent of Schools with Mrs. Horgan's 1st grade class (top right) and Mrs. Santoros 4th grade class (bottom right); Council Seymore, Lt. Pisano, Dr. Chrisomalis, Officer Mazzeo, and Nurse Caratenuto (bottom left). Celebrating the Lunar New Year This month, the NMHS Mandarin Society visited B.F. Gibbs Elementary to share the vibrant traditions of the Lunar New Year. Under the leadership of Mrs. Sophia Kirschner, the society empowers students to master not only the Mandarin language but also the rich cultural heritage of China. The high-energy assembly featured high school students performing traditional dragon dances and rhythmic drumming (pictured left), creating a beautiful and memorable experience for the elementary audience. Other Information & Happenings Approved 2026 - 2027 New Milford Public School District Calendar   The approved 2026–2027 New Milford School Calendar is now available below. We kindly ask that you plan family vacations around scheduled recesses to ensure your child’s attendance remains consistent. Regular attendance is a vital component of academic achievement and is a strong predictor of long-term success beyond graduation. 2026 - 2027 New Milford District Calendar Supporting Students and Families Affected by ICE   In light of recent news regarding immigration enforcement and some of our students being directly affected, we want to reaffirm that New Milford’s diversity is one of our greatest strengths. We recognize that during periods of heightened activity, schools serve as an essential emotional anchor for students who may feel anxious or unsafe. Whether a student is personally affected, part of a mixed-status family, or an empathetic peer, these events can cause significant distress and ultimately distract from school. While school districts do not control federal policy, we are fully committed to providing an environment of safety, belonging, and stability. The New Milford Public School District remains a protective and supportive space where every student has the right to learn. If you or your child would like to discuss concerns specific to your family , please reach out to your school guidance counselor or our District Student Assistance Counselor (SAC), Mrs. Dorene Zacher. Upcoming Parent Webinars:   There are two upcoming Parent/Guardian Talk Series Webinars that Hackensack Meridian Children's Health is hosting focused on 'Food Allergies', and another on 'Keeping Children Safe'. Flyers are linked below. These are free events.  1) --- March 11- Food Allergies 101 2) --- April 23- Keeping Your Children Safe Inside and Outside the Home UPCOMING EVENTS:  (visit the school webpages for more specific information) Upcoming Events March 4:       Senior Citizen: Dinner & Show March 5:       Legally Blonde Opening Night: 7:00pm March 5-7:   Legally Blonde:  7:00pm (NMHS  Auditorium) March 11:     Rising 6th Grade Parent Night (DEO): 6:30pm March 13:    Empty Bowls Fundraiser (NMHS) 5:00pm March 16:    NJGPA Testing begins at NMHS March 18 :   BOE Meeting (Work Session): 7:00pm March 19:    Schools Closed for students / PD for Staff March 25:   BOE Meeting (Regular): 7:00pm                    DEO Science Fair: 6:30pm March 30 :  Spring Break begins April 6:        School Resumes   Pevny/Savino Scholarship Donation Form Link COMMUNITY BACKPACK If you are interested in more upcoming events and happenings taking place in the New Milford Community please be on the lookout for the "Community Backpack" emails that are sent out through parent square regularly. Community Backpack Link (log in required)

Tuesday, Mar 03 2026

December 'In-Review' Newsletter: Office of the Super...

DECEMBER 'IN-REVIEW' NEWSLETTER Dear School Community,  I hope your children enjoyed their winter break. With 13 days away from the classroom, about as long as a public school winter break can be, our hope is that our students return feeling rejuvenated and ready for the months ahead. While we anticipate a bit of "morning grogginess" as everyone reacclimates to the school schedule and the demands of the classroom, we trust our students and staff will be right back in the swing of things in no time. The new year always brings a sense of a fresh start. This is a great time to refocus on attendance and academic goals for your children, but even beyond academics, our schools are places where children learn to navigate diversity, resolve conflicts, and develop themselves as individuals. A large part of this focuses on providing opportunities for students at all levels to serve the greater community. Mahatma Gandhi stated, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Helping others is critical when it comes to students, and even adults, discovering higher purposes in life. Nobody looks back on their life and says, “I wish I had helped less.” With that being said, in this issue we are proud to share the many ways our students supported our community this past month, along with some essential parent information, awards and recognition, and upcoming events happening in and around the District.  Sincerely, Peter Galasso Superintendent of the New Milford Public Schools   PARENT INFORMATION Emergency Closing Procedures (Inclement Weather): Winter is here, which means we are always paying close attention to weather reports that can impact our daily routines. To ensure we are all on the same page, I want to outline the process for determining delayed openings, early dismissals, or school closings. Emergency Communication: The District recently tested our emergency communication system. You should have received a notification via Parent Square, a text message, and a phone call to all registered phones. Accurate contact information is essential for receiving emergency notifications. Please take a moment to check and update your information in Genesis to ensure accuracy. How a decision is made: Preparation (The Day Before): I begin communicating with our Business Administrator and Facilities staff to review forecasts and prepare equipment, as well as discussing the pending forecast with the DPW and Police. We also coordinate with neighboring superintendents, as we often make regional decisions. Decision Time (The Morning Of): We review reports throughout the evening. Around 5:00 a.m. , superintendents finalize the decision. We typically notify the community the morning of the decision. However, for a clearly overwhelming storm, we may notify you the night before. We understand that the sooner we can disseminate information to families the better, however we also want to make the right decision as to not use our emergency days unnecessarily.   Following the Decision: Our website is updated immediately, and communication goes out to families, staff, and all necessary agencies. Please know that making the call can be challenging. Our goal is always to be in session, as routine is the best for students and families; however, safety is the most important factor.  The decision is based on the best available data at that specific time, recognizing that weather conditions are often fluid and change rapidly. Please try to have a plan ready for every scenario: a full day, no school, a delayed opening, or an early dismissal. As a public school our students must attend school a minimum of 180 days. Typically, the district builds in 3-4 emergency closing days, which are given back at some point in the Spring if they are not used. However, if we use more than those allotted emergency days, sessions must be instituted over Spring break to meet that 180 day requirement. We do not want to use Emergency closing days frivolously. 2025-2026 New Milford Public School District Calendar   Risks of Gambling for our Students: The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority. We have recently received an advisory from the Bergen County Youth Services Commission regarding a concerning uptick in gambling activity among middle and high school students across our region. Reports from local law enforcement and School Resource Officers (SROs) indicate that students are increasingly using peer-to-peer betting and prediction apps, such as Kalshi and similar platforms. While these apps may look like simple "prediction games," they involve real-world wagering on sports and entertainment that can normalize high-risk behavior at an early age. Key Concerns: App-Based Betting: Students are using digital platforms to place bets on various events, often underestimating the financial and psychological risks. Informal Wagering: There have been reports of students engaging in "collateral-based" bets involving personal property, such as phones or e-bikes. Normalization of Risk: These habits can lead to significant changes in behavior, academic focus, and financial stress. We are looking to integrate this topic into our digital citizenship and wellness curriculum, but your partnership at home is essential. We encourage you to: Monitor App Activity: Check for prediction or betting apps on your student’s devices and review their online financial activity. Look for Red Flags: Be mindful of frequent talk about "odds" or "winnings," a sudden preoccupation with prediction apps, or changes in how your child manages money. Start a Conversation: Talk openly with your child about the risks of online betting and the difference between gaming and gambling. Our school counselors and staff are here to support any student who may be struggling with these issues. By staying informed and proactive, we can ensure our schools remains a healthy environment for all. AWARDS & RECOGNITION: NJIC Coach of the Year: Thomas Corizzi: Few teams in the conference had the year-over-year turnaround of the Knights. After going 2-14-1 last year, Corizzi, who’s been at the helm since 2020, guided New Milford to an 11-10-1 record and a divisional title, finishing atop the new NJIC American division. The Knights also made the finals of the BIT Silver tournament but more importantly, won their first state tournament game since 2013 with a 3-1 win over Wallkill Valley. The program is headed in a great direction.   NMHS Junior honored as an NJCTA Youth Leadership Winner: The New Jersey Chinese Teachers Association (NJCTA) Youth Leadership Award Honors high school and college students demonstrating leadership, community service, and dedication in Chinese language and cultural studies. We would like to congratulate Nathaniel Gammel, a Junior at NMHS, for being honored with the NJCTA Youth Leadership Award this past December. Nathaniel is not a native Mandarin speaker, however after taking interest in 6th grade and through teacher and parent support is now taking the highest levels of Mandarin at the High School. Mandarin is a complicated language to learn, which speaks volumes to Nathaniel’s diligence and passion for the Chinese culture, which he is now taking a leadership role to support. The District is very proud of Nathaniel. Pictured left is Nathaniel with his High School Mandarin teacher Mrs. Kirschner.    Jake Johnson named 1st Team All-County: Jake Johnson, a standout high school athlete from New Milford, was selected 1st team All-Bergen County in football for the 2025 football season. Jake played multiple positions on both defense and offense and was a leader on his team. Jake was also awarded the Star-Ledger's Player of the Week in September 2025 after a strong performance in the season opener. He has been recognized as a top player in North Jersey and the state and will continue his football career, competing at the Division I level, at Marist University.   Athletic Director Honored at the State Level: We are thrilled to announce that Joe Ricciardelli, New Milford Athletic Director, has been named the recipient of the DAANJ (Director of Athletics Association of NJ) Sectional Award of Merit, representing the North I Section. This prestigious honor is awarded annually to an athletic director who exemplifies outstanding achievement, unwavering dedication to student-athletes, and the highest level of professionalism throughout their career. Mr. Riciardelli is being recognized for the significant positive influence he has had on the lives of student-athletes across New Jersey, most notably in sportsmanship. Mr. Ricciardelli will be officially honored by his colleagues at the DAANJ annual awards banquet in Atlantic City this March. SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY: ' Tis the Season ' A part of the School Districts mission is to set up opportunities for students to give back not only to the school community, but also the town of New Milford. Below are just some of the ways our amazing staff supported students in service learning this season. Intergenerational Service at New Milford Senior Center We love seeing our students give back! The New Milford Community Service Club recently teamed up with the New Milford Senior Center for two fantastic "Intergenerational Technology Days". Supervised by Mr. Chris Addeo, NMHS students put their skills to use as "tech troubleshooters," answering any questions and helping local seniors master their smartphones and laptops. Our students were absolute pros, and the event was such a hit that we’re already planning future sessions—including a special presentation on AI! We also want to highlight our Choral Ensemble and Ms. Kimberlee Korzelius (pictured below), who brought beautiful music to the Senior Center with a special performance this past December. They performed excerpts from the winter concert and brought over some Christmas cookies made by students in Mrs. Bruno's culinary classes.  National Honor Society (NHS) student 'Giving Tree' initiative National Honor Society (NHS) President Emma Grady proposed a “Holiday Wishing Tree” initiative to support students who may have limited gifts to open during the holiday season. Through this initiative, NHS members, or individuals they knew, had the opportunity to purchase one or two gifts for anonymous students in need. The NHS officers held a meeting where members could sign up to sponsor a student. The only information provided was the student’s age, gender, and a $25 spending limit to ensure anonymity and fairness. Gifts were received and delivered to Berkley. This initiative was a great success and truly reflected the spirit of service within the National Honor Society chapter. We would love to continue this tradition in future years. (Pictured: Vice President-Keena Rhouisa Obrique, President- Emma Grady, Secretary- Sahasra Shyam, Treasurer-  Hrishi Gevariya, ) Breakfast with Santa and his Elves On December 6, New Milford High School hosted its annual Holiday Breakfast, bringing the community together for a morning of festive fun. Held in the NMHS cafeteria, the event featured an all-you-can-eat spread of pancakes, eggs, sausage, and coffee for parents, while children enjoyed face painting, holiday crafts, and a special visit from Santa. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to the students and staff who volunteered their time to ensure the event's success. Ms. Patty Bernardo, who has orchestrated the breakfast for the past 15 years, noted that this year’s "student elves" were among the best she has ever worked with. Their singing and genuine enthusiasm, how they worked with the children, along with appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus—created an atmosphere of joy that truly defined the spirit of the season. (Pictured: Santa and some of his elves) Berkley Street School Holiday Card Drive: The Berkley Street School Student Council, under the guidance of Ms. Loveman, also joined the season of giving. The council members organized a heartfelt initiative to create handmade holiday cards for local senior citizens. These student-crafted cards were delivered to the CareOne facility in New Milford, with the goal of bringing extra cheer and brightness to the residents' holiday season. B.F. Gibbs partner with NMPD - Toy Drive: The Gibbs Elementary School Student Council, supervised by Mrs. Smith, partnered with the New Milford Police Department to collect toys for the annual PBA Toy Drive. Due to their efforts, these toys brightened the holidays for children across the county. Pictured to the right are the Police officers and students that loaded the truck with all the toys. DEO Spreading Joy this Holiday Season:  The DEO community has been busy spreading joy this winter! We are proud of the initiative our students have shown in giving back. Here are some highlights from recent events: Mentorship in Action : Student Council leaders partnered with our youngest learners in Pre-K to design and assemble handmade holiday gifts, fostering a wonderful sense of school spirit across grade levels. Service Learning in Action : Our student performers took their talents on the road to share the gift of music with local senior residents, bringing smiles and holiday cheer to our neighbors. Please click the link to watch the video of the performance: VIDEO: DEO Performance for Senior Citizens Schoolwide "Whiteout" : We turned the school white to raise vital funds for Camp Quality, supporting their mission to provide unforgettable summer camp experiences for children battling cancer. Other Information & Happenings Presenter Makes a Positive Impact:   When a school schedules an educational program, it must look beyond the content and carefully consider the delivery. Will the speaker capture the students’ attention? Will the message be relatable, leaving them eager to hear more? While many professional speakers claim to achieve this, not all live up to the promise. Nathan Harmon, however, exceeded every expectation. From the moment he stepped onto the stage at New Milford High School, Mr. Harmon fully captivated our students. He commanded the room, holding their attention with an intensity that left them hanging on his every word. His core messages; developing healthy relationships, building self-worth, valuing family, and understanding that a single mistake does not define a lifetime, were delivered with profound clarity. Nathan’s philosophy that every challenge is a "teachable moment" resonated deeply. He reached more students than he may ever realize, leaving an impact that will stay with them long after his visit. W e extend our sincere gratitude to the New Milford Drug Alliance for their financial support of this program. Their unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our school community is truly appreciated. Diabetes Awareness for Parents:   The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has released a new informational resource focused on Type 1 diabetes to support statewide health awareness. This resource provides a comprehensive overview of the condition, including common warning signs, risk factors, and important screening information. We encourage you to review the document Diabetes Awareness Informational Link . If you have any questions regarding these symptoms or would like further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s school nurse . Elementary Holiday Celebrations:   The Holiday season at the Elementary Schools can be a  lot of fun. Grade 3 Grinch Day ---------------------------  Berkley Holiday Video Young Expressions Art Show:   Please join us for the Young Expressions Regional High School Art Exhibit at the Art Center of Northern New Jersey. This exhibition features artwork by high school students from 17 Bergen County schools, including pieces by six selected students from New Milford High School. The closing reception and awards ceremony will be held on January 15th from 6:00–7:30 PM. Please see the flyer below for more details. Internet Safety Presentation: "The World Out There":   The Maywood School District would like to invite communities in Bergen County to an internet safety event on January 22nd in Maywood.  As noted in the flier linked here; Internet Safety Presentation Information Link , the event will be conducted by Detective James Calaski of the Bergen County Prosecutors Office Cyber Crimes Unit. UPCOMING EVENTS:  (visit the school webpages for more specific information) Upcoming Events January 6:       BOE Reorganization Meeting: NMHS-7:00pm January 8:       National Honor Society Induction: NMHS- 7:00pm January 13:      Berkley Winter Concert: NMHS-7:00pm January 15:      Gibbs Winter Concert: NMHS-6:00pm                         Young Expressions Art Show (see right)                         Berkley PTO Meeting- Berkley-7:00pm January 19:      MLK Day: Schools Closed January 20:     Gibbs PTO Meeting: Gibbs-7:00pm January 23:      Pevny Night (wrestling): NMHS- 6:00pm January 27:     DEO PTO Meeting: DEO-7:00pm January 30:      Pevny Night (basketball): NMHS- 5:15pm/7:00pm February 5 :    Gibbs Family Night: 7:00pm February 7 :    Spring Musical Benefit Concert: NMHS- 7:00pm   COMMUNITY BACKPACK If you are interested in more upcoming events and happenings taking place in the New Milford Community please be on the lookout for the "Community Backpack" emails that are sent out through parent square weekly. Community Backpack Link (log in required)

Tuesday, Jan 06 2026