OBOE-Mail Blast March 6, 2015 Volume 4, Number 22

In This Issue:

PARCC Testing

AIDA: The Musical

Blacks at Microsoft Minority Student Day

RPCS Black History Celebration • Stamp

Unveiling Heywood Avenue Mural

Celebrity Read at Oakwood

February Board Meeting FYI • Strategic

Planning • Coming

Highlights • Preschool

Registration Contact Information: Orange Board of Education 451 Lincoln Avenue Orange, NJ 07050 Send Us An Email

School Events

PARCC Testing Continues

The Orange School District is administering the PARCC assessment to 5th, 6th and some 7th grade students in the elementary schools beginning March 9, 2015. Due to the school closing on Thursday, March 5, 2015, some 3rd and 4th grade students will also be taking the assessment next week. The full

assessment calendar is shown below. As a reminder, the assessment is digital, therefore, students must bring their headphones for testing during the week.

Children who are being tested are to turn in all cell phones to the testing teacher. All other students must have phones turned off during the testing period.

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Orange High School and Orange Preparatory Academy Present Aida: The Musical

The Visual and Performing Arts Department of Orange High School, in association with Orange Preparatory Academy (OPA), proudly presents AIDA: The Musical. Winner of four Tony Awards, this Elton John and Tim Rice tour de force is set to “blow the roof off” the OPA Auditorium! Prepare to be transported to ancient Egypt, where this epic story of an enslaved Nubian princess, her conflicted captor, and a forbidden love rock the age of antiquity to its core. This Grammy Award winning musical is part dance spectacular, part rock concert and part timeless romance. AIDA is a larger-than-life tale about the power and endlessness of love; don’t miss your chance to see this spectacular production. Experience… AIDA: The Musical!

Performances are March 26, 27, and 28: Thursday and Friday at 7:00 p.m. and two Saturday shows with a 2:00 p.m. matinee and a 7:00 p.m. final performance.

Dana Levin, director, is excited about the opportunity to present Elton John and Tim Rice’s powerful work. Most recently, Ms. Levin directed the OHS/OPA production of Tim Kelly’s adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Classic, Sherlock Holmes. She has also previously directed The Great Gatsby, Little Shop of Horrors, and The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee. Ms. Levin also serves as the advisor of the OHS chapter of the International Thespian Society and directs the OHS Drama Showcase. She states, “I have seen the growth of this program over the past few years blossom into excellent stage presentations. Our students are developing their repertoire and skill-base. Those students who may not like to sing or dance [in a musical] often assist in the Stage Crew. There are many students who just live and breathe ‘musicals’ and this is when they shine!”

David C. Milnes, Orange High School’s award winning choral director, returns as musical director. Mr. Milnes’ work has shone in many previous productions, including Grease, Dreamgirls, Beauty & the Beast, and Little Shop of Horrors. “I’m excited that our program has grown to the point where I welcome newcomer, Pete Abazia, OPA Choral Director, as our assistant musical director. We have our hands full, but working with the students is an incredible labor of love.”

“Ms. Levin and Mr. Milnes are really demanding a lot from the cast and this is going to be one terrific show,” said Sarahnia Casseus, playing the part of AIDA. Also, Jean Fleurentin, who recently played Detective Holmes in the OHS fall production of Sherlock Holmes and is now cast as Chief Minister Zoser, states, “Musicals are so different from straight plays. I got the ‘bug’ of musicals from last year’s production of GREASE. That’s why I auditioned for Sherlock and now I’m back. I could get really used to doing this as a career!”

Peter Crosta, Supervisor of Visual & Performing Arts for the Orange Public School District indicated that the live performances in Orange are meeting the community with open arms. “We are seeing more and more of the community coming out to support our students. Why not? They are talented and pour their hearts and souls into their work. If you haven’t yet joined us for a live performance, you might be pleasantly surprised!!”

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Aida: The Musical will be presented at Orange Preparatory Academy Auditorium, located at the intersection of Lincoln and Central Avenues, in Orange, New Jersey. The theatre is wheelchair-accessible with assisted hearing units available for the hearing impaired. General seating tickets may be purchased in advance for $7.00. They may also be purchased at the door for $10.00. Tickets are also available for senior citizens and students (with a valid student identification card) for $5.00 at all times. Please call (973) 677-4000 ext. 5665 or email lazzizro@orange.k12.nj.us with any questions.

24th Annual Blacks at Microsoft Minority Student Day: Building Diversity in STEM Submitted by: Max Nixon, SmartLab Facilitator, Orange High School

On February 13, Blacks at Microsoft (BAM) hosted its annual Minority Student Day, now in its 24th year. The goal of the event is to provide area high school students from underrepresented backgrounds with information about the exciting tools, resources, and career opportunities available to them in technology. For two Orange Preparatory Academy students and 15 Orange High School students, the day began with registration and breakfast, followed by the keynote speaker. The event was held at Microsoft’s corporate office in New York City. The keynote speaker, Navarrow Wright, President of Maximum Leverage Solutions, a consulting firm that has worked with startups, businesses and brands in the areas of technology and product strategy, addressed the students following the registration. As a follow up to last year’s successful discussions, Microsoft asked two Orange High School representatives, Xivandell Emmanuel and Conroy McDonald, to return as panel speakers. As panelists, they were asked a variety of questions concerning “STEM” (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), shared their views concerning technology, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of technology facing young people today. They answered the questions and had an opportunity to share their entrepreneurial dreams of being game designers with Microsoft.

Pictured (left to right): Xivandell Emmanuel and Conroy McDonald.

Pictured: Malika Payton and Malcom Quinn, working with peers.

Pictured: OHS students, Conroy McDonald, Jamilla Williams, Jordanne Davenport and Xivandell Emmanuel.

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The remainder of the day included breakout sessions, a tour of the Microsoft Technology Center, a session on “Demystifying Online Social Media” and the infamous Elevator Pitch. A representative of Microsoft YouthSpark, a youth empowerment initiative, enlightened the students on internships and recruiting, and kept the day interesting and exciting. Irvington High School, participated in this year’s event, as well. On behalf of the students, Mr. Max Nixon thanks Mr. Michael Dunner, Microsoft Corporation, Ms. Pat Thomas and the North Jersey Chapter of the Links, and Ms. Karen Cooper, Female Achievers, for their support.

Pictured: OHS student, Mabel Torto, being interviewed by Microsoft staff.

Pictured: Max Nixon, Ms. Cooper and Orange students presenting award to Michael Dunner.

Rosa Parks Community School Celebrates Black History and Culture

The Rosa Parks Community School Celebrates Black History and Culture was presented on February 27 in two separate performances. The program was an exploration of African American cultural through dance, song and poetry. The show also featured a special ‘Stamp Unveiling,’ made by the United Stated Postal Service of the Oranges that capped off the event.

The program was officiated by dance instructor, Ms. Nadiyah Smith-McCoy who aptly opened the show with “Balanta-Kere Kay,” a traditional African dance piece. Her students also performed several poignant pieces to Stevie Wonder’s “They Won’t Go, When I Go” and “Umi Says” by Mos Def.

Pictured above: Scenes from The Rosa Parks Community School Celebrates Black History and Culture.

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The choral groups, under the direction of music instructor, Mrs. Mariel Johnson, sang a variety of songs including traditional spirituals, such as “Wade In Water,” and “This Train,” and a popular, and meaningful song, “Glory” by John Legend and Common. There was also a performance by the school’s Vocal Ensemble of 6th and 7th grade students, singing, “Lean on Me,” with percussion and guitar accompaniment.

There were also interludes of poetry and oral presentations by individual students. Marvin Walker did a monologue about “Eric Garner,” Esther Ekeh and Neagesti Chance recited “The Song of the Smoke King” by Langston Hughes. Katiana Isaac did an oral presentation, “Who Am I - Am I the Future?” Marvin Walker, Isaiah Brown and Hasaun Ridley completed presentations, with words by Bob Marley and Langston Hughes. Students Makeyla Giorlando recited poetry with the Grade 2-4 Chorus and Miphilove Milford and Nia Thomas accompanied a dance performance with poetry.

The 4th and 5th grade classes were crowd pleasers. They performed a skit, illustrated by the lyrics from “Never Give Up,” by Yolonda Adams.

The 5th grade dancers closed the program with a lively piece choreographed to “Stomp” by the Brother’s Johnson. Closing remarks from Principal, Debra Joseph-Charles, followed their performance. She thanked staff and students for their efforts and the Post Office for their continued support.

Pictured above: Scenes from The Rosa Parks Community School Celebrates Black History and Culture.

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Stamp Unveiling This year’s stamp honors Robert Robinson Taylor, the first African-American graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as the first academically trained black architect in America. His great granddaughter is Ms. Valerie Jarrett, White House Senior Advisor. Ms. Virginia Garrett, Orange’s Postmaster, read a biography about the honoree, detailing his work designing many of the buildings at Tuskegee Institute, among his noted accomplishments. Ms. Adrienne Wooten, Deputy Director Community Services, made remarks on behalf of the Honorable Mayor Dwayne D. Warren.

Pictured (left to right) Assistant Principal Dennis Peterson, Principal Debra Joseph-Charles, Postal Service Representative, Orange Township Deputy Director Community Services Adrienne Wooten, Orange Postmaster Virginia Garrett, and Assistant Principal Oliverto Agosto.

Superintendent of Schools Ronald C. Lee, who was unable to attend the presentation stated, “We welcomed the opportunity for our students to celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans, particularly during Black History Month. We are thankful to the United States Post Office for their continued support in sharing the Postal Service’s Black Heritage Stamp with our students and we are also thankful to the City for facilitating the presentation.”

Heywood Avenue School Creates a Legacy Mural

A new mural adorns a hallway in the annex building at Heywood Avenue School. It was completed under the guidance of highly regarded graphic designer, Mr. Dan Fenelon. He joined students, in Mrs. Kelley Clark’s, Kindergarten through second grade and fourth through seventh grade art classes, during the week of February 9, to create an inspirational painting. The mural represents the students reaching for their dreams.

“This mural has multiple benefits,” said Mrs. Clark, “Through conversation with the artists, the students were introduced to careers in the arts. They had the opportunity to work with a successful local artist who shared his background in graphic design and marketing. They where able to have insightful conversations and were able to participate in a legacy mural.”

Additionally, the mural project underscores the process and effort that goes into creating art. “Students were able to see that you just don't sit down and make a masterpiece.” As with other vocations, both painting and drawing take effort and can result in success or failure. Mrs. Clark goes on to say, “They where also able to see the amount of pre-planning required and how important math skills are in creating large scale artworks.” This was evident when Mr. Fenelon shared with the students his grid system, in preparation for sketching the mural.

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Mr. Fenelon was engaged through Morris Arts, a not-for-profit organization, which provides arts education programs in schools, to instruct students and expose them to careers in art.

Mr. Fenelon has a wide range of experience conceiving and executing original artwork for a variety of corporate clients. Mr. Fenelon uses a combination of technology, honed skill and craftsmanship to create his art. The students where excited to work with him and many students stopped in to visit during the week long process.

Celebrity Read at Oakwood Avenue Submitted by Robert Pettit, Principal, Oakwood Avenue Community School

“Celebrity Read is a literacy initiative spanning the month of February that recruits volunteers to model their love of reading and the pursuit of education as a pathway to success in local elementary school classrooms.” United Way of Essex and West Hudson.

On February 25, 2015, Oakwood Avenue Community School hosted a United Way of Essex and West Hudson Celebrity Read event. The theme of the program was “All My Heroes Read.” The program was held to help promote and foster interest of reading in the students. There was an overwhelming turnout of participants. The students and staff at Oakwood Avenue Community School were proud to host Orange Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Esq., Superintendent of the Orange Public School District, Mr. Ronald C. Lee, and other Celebrity Read guests from Orange High School, St. Matthews AME Church, the United Way and graduates of Rising Tide Capital. Principal Robert Pettit, stated, “We would like to give a special thank to our visiting readers for participating in the Celebrity Read event this year. We all know that when students read and are read to on a constant basis, they will take more of an interest in reading themselves.”

Pictured (first row, left to right): Celebrity Readers from OHS; Rising Tide Capital participants; Celebrity Reader in classroom. (bottom row, left to right) Superintendent Ronald C. Lee with OHS student, J. Marcelin; OHS students in classroom; the Honorable Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Esq., in classroom.

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February Monthly Board of Education Meeting

Rosa Parks Community School (RPCS) hosted the February Board of Education Meeting. After the Flag Salute, the school gave a wonderful performance for the Board members, staff and attending family and friends. The Rosa Parks Chorus did a musical selection “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers and two dance selections. The Dance Ensemble performed “Landslide” by Dixie Chicks and a troupe of RPCS young men performed “Spread my Wings” by Troop. They received loud applause and kudos from the Board. Principal Debra Joseph-Charles thanked them for their participation and thanked staff and parents for their assistance and attendance.

Pictured (above and left): Rosa Parks Community School performers at the Board Meeting.

Student of the Month: Superintendent Ronald C. Lee and Board of Education President, Mrs. Patricia A. Arthur, presented students with certificates for being selected Student of the Month (SOTM). On a monthly basis, students are recognized for exemplary behavior, academics and citizenship by their school. The students honored were:

Muyideen Saba Orange High School Shyheim Tyson Career and Innovation Academy of Orange Serena McKay Orange Preparatory Academy Jordan McKenzie Cleveland Street School Francesca Rodriguez Rosa Parks Community School Deicka Jean Charles Park Avenue School Aminah Latimore Heywood Avenue School Odalys Fajardo Forest Street School Makaida Samuels Oakwood Avenue School Mullen Quaye Lincoln Avenue School

Pictured above with Board President Patricia Arthur and Superintendent Lee: (left to right) Principal Dr. Cayce Cummins, Cleveland SOTM and parent; Principal Dr. Hackett with Park SOTM and parent; Assistant Principal Patrick Yearwood, Lincoln SOTM and family.

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Parent of the Month:

The Parent of the Month, Mrs. Joycelyn Francis, is the PTA president at Rosa Parks Community School and a member of the District’s Parent Academy. She has been an involved parent for the past 4 years. Before becoming president, Mrs. Francis was an active member of the school family, involved in all aspects of school life. Her new role has increased her enthusiasm for ensuring that the students at Rosa Parks and their parents are informed and are afforded the best that the school and the district have to offer.

As PTA president, Mrs. Francis has been instrumental in maintaining the membership of RPCS’s vibrant PTA. She has continued to offer many of the traditional opportunities available to parents, such as bingo night, potlucks and pertinent academic information. With the help of her Executive team, the PTA now offers several additional workshops that impact the daily lives of students and parents, including a “How Money Works” seminar, forums on nutrition and information related to PARCC. Rosa Parks Community School is honored to have a parent who is always “going above and beyond.” On behalf of the Rosa Parks school community, “thank you,” Mrs. Joycelyn Francis.

FYI Strategic Planning Meetings

The Orange Public Schools’ Board of Education held the first of three important meetings on March 2, to create a Strategic Plan. The remaining meetings are scheduled for Monday, March 30 and Monday, April 27. Participants have been invited to attend. Strategic Planning creates a vision of the future, and identifies goals

and strategies necessary to meet the challenges of the 21stCentury. Information about the Strategic Planning initiative can be found on the district’s website. Coming in Future Issues:

• Orange Preparatory Academy, In Observance of Black History Month Presents - The Journey: An African American Perspective

• Heywood Avenue School - Student Achievement, National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony

• Cleveland Street School Celebrity Read • Oakwood Avenue Community School Mini College Fair • Pride in Public Education at Livingston Mall - Heywood Avenue School and Park Avenue

School • Forest Street School Board Lobby Art Opening

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Preschool Registration Begins for the 2015-2016 School Year

The Orange Township Public School District began preschool registration for the 2015-2016 school year on March 2. All children who are residents of Orange and will be 3 or 4 years of age by October 1, 2015, are eligible to attend free, full day, pre-school, in the Pre-K 3 or Pre–K 4 class. The registration schedule is as follows:

• March 10, 17,18, 24, 25 and 31, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with the last sign-in at 1:00 p.m.

Registration will take place at the Orange Early Childhood Center, 397 Park Avenue in Orange. Two proofs of residency are required, as well as child's original birth certificate and immunization record. Also, parent or legal guardian must show a current lease or mortgage statement and a picture ID. For more information, call 973-677-4500 ext. 1904 or 1918.

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March 26 & 27 at 7:00 PM

March 28 at 2:00 & 7:00 PM

Orange Prep Auditorium

Call 973-­677-­4000 ext 5665for more information

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OBOE-Mail Blast March 13, 2015 Volume 4, Number 23

In This Issue: PARCC Testing

Oakwood Avenue Mini College Fair

Visual and Performing Arts Month

PRIDE Expo

OPA Celebrates Black History

Heywood Avenue Awards and National Junior Honor Society

Celebrity Read at Cleveland Street School

Forest Street’s Board Lobby Art Show

FYI

• Pre-K Registration

• Essex County Summer Camps

• Dress Down Day Fundraiser

Contact Information: Orange Board of Education 451 Lincoln Avenue Orange, NJ 07050 Send Us An Email

School Events

PARCC Testing Continues

The Orange School District is administering the PARCC assessment to 7thand 8th grade students beginning March 16, 2015. The full assessment calendar is shown below. As a reminder, the assessment is digital, therefore, students must bring their headphones for testing during the week.

Children who are being tested are to turn in all cell phones to the testing teacher. All other students must have phones turned off during the testing period. See calendar below for testing schedule.

Oakwood Avenue Community School Hosts 2nd Annual Mini College Fair College & Career Ready Culminating Activity Submitted by Pamela Venable, School Counselor, Oakwood Avenue Community School

All Oakwood Avenue students were given the opportunity to participate in the school’s Second Annual Mini College & University Fair, which culminated on February 26. Grades K through 3 created posters and grades 4 through 7 created displays on presentation boards (pictured left). Principal Robert Pettit reminded the students that the Mini College Fair is an annual activity to help them learn about the college experience and gain additional knowledge about careers. Two

students in grades K-7 were awarded trophies for their presentations, which included an essay/statement, as well as information about the college or university. Certificates of participation were presented to every student who completed the project.

Every student, including the K - 2nd graders, finished an exercise where they completed college applications. The college application was a life skills activity that helped students learn their home address as well as their emergency contact phone numbers.

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The culminating event was a panel discussion with Q & A. The guest speakers included members of the Orange High School and Career and Innovation Academy of Orange staff, support team: Social Worker, Mr. Donald Nicholson, Career Counselor, Mr. Lyle Wallace, Social Worker, Mrs. Dana Jones and the Structured Learning Experience Coordinator, Mrs. Linda Siddiq. They provided the 4th through 7th grade students with valuable information that they will need as they transition from Oakwood to Orange Prep and beyond.

Pictured (left to right): Panelists, Mr. Pettit, Mr. Wallace.

Pictured (left to right): Ms. Jones, Mr. Nicholson, Ms. Saddiq, Ms. Rena Campbell. The keynote speaker for the event was Ms. Rana Campbell. Ms. Campbell attended Cleveland Street School before going on to Prep School in Englewood, New Jersey. She is a 2013 Princeton University graduate who has been featured on Fox 5 Good Day New York for her detailed cultural accounts about the experiences of minorities at Ivy League schools.

Pictured (left to right): Ms. Rena Campbell with students and student displays.

Ms. Campbell shared some of her experiences, having transferred from Orange to different cultural, social and economic environments. “Success comes with preparation and hard work. There will always be some distractions, however, it is up to you, the individual, to stay focused in order to reach your goals.” She encouraged the students to set objectives and strive to reach those aims, which often means making the important decision to separate yourself from those who are not working to be college and career ready and surround yourself with likeminded people.

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Visual and Performing Arts Reign in March

At the March Board of Education meeting, four resolutions were presented to the Board for approval. These resolutions are annual acknowledgement and celebrate the arts in education. The resolutions declared that the Orange Board of Education endorses the observance of:

• Music In Our Schools Month 2015, as an opportunity to support the purposes and practices of music education

• Youth Art Month 2015, as an opportunity to support the purposes and practices of visual arts education

• Dance in Education and Life Month 2015, as an opportunity to support the purposes and practices of dance education

• Theatre in our Schools Month 2015, as an opportunity to support the purposes and practices of theatre education

PRIDE Expo at Livingston Mall

The Essex County Education Association hosted the PRIDE in PUBLIC EDUCATION EXPO at the Livingston Mall from February 27 through March 6. The Expo featured displays of classroom projects, artwork and sculptures, as well as live performances by students from public schools in Essex County.

The Expo showcased performances by Heywood Avenue School’s Vocal (pictured above) and Strings Ensembles on February 27, led by Mrs. Jessica Gabbert and, standing in for Mrs. Erin-Leigh VanOrden, Mr. Peter Crosta, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts, respectively.

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On March 4, Park Avenue School instrumental students, led by Mrs. Marianne Mroz, dance students, led by Mrs. Deborah Rembert and vocal students, led by Mr. Scott Clark, entertained family, staff and mall passersby. The school also gave out T-shirts to attending parents, supported by a $1,500 grant from the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). Mrs. Mroz applied for the grant, which was given for community support and involvement, and sponsored the group’s attendance at the EXPO. They received supplies for instruments, along with the promotional T-shirt for adults.

Pictured (above and right): Scenes from the PRIDE Expo at Livingston Mall. (Park Avenue performers are shown right).

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Orange Preparatory Academy Celebrates Black History Month

The Journey: An African American Perspective was presented on February 25 in observance of Black History Month. The program was a celebration of the African diaspora, highlighted by the opening “Flag Procession,” and the contributions of African Americans to the world, illustrated through the skit, “If Black People Didn’t Exist,” dance, speeches and song.

The Master of Ceremony was student Shyneson Laurent, under the guidance of Ms. Wanda Reynolds, one of the Black Heritage Committee members who orchestrated the event. He announced the various segments including seventh grader Andrew Coates reciting excerpts from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech.

There was a reading on the impact of the movie Selma and the importance of the historic march. Mr. Glen Gamble, business teacher and committee member sang “What is America to Me.” The Premier Dance Ensemble performed a “Civil Rights Tribute,” recounting important events of the civil rights movement.

Guest speaker, Mr. Lawrence Hamm, People’s Organization for Progress, (pictured left) complemented the students for the show and ignited the group with a thoughtful

discussion of how far we have come and what is still left to be done for equality. He called on his background as the youngest person every appointed to the Newark Board of Education and being a Princeton graduate.

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The choral group, under the direction of music instructor, Mr. Peter Abazia, and the OPA Concert Band, led by Mrs. Dorchas Robinson, played fitting music for the occasion, while the OPA Dance Ensemble, directed by Mrs. Deborah Rembert, performed to “Glory” by Common and John Legend. But it was the students who shone with a multi-media skit of a young man unable to complete routine tasks due to the absence of many modern conveniences invented by African Americans.

Principal Aretha Malloy (pictured left) closed the program reading from Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise.”

Pictured above: Scenes from Orange Preparatory Academy Presents The Journey: An African American Perspective.

Heywood Avenue School Middle School Awards Assembly and National Jr. Honor Society Induction Ceremony On February 26, Heywood Avenue School recognized middle grade students for their accomplishments during the 2nd Marking Cycle. Students who received honor roll, high honor roll and perfect attendance were presented with certificates. Additionally, the event marked the inaugural induction of Heywood Avenue 6th and 7th graders into the National Junior Honor Society.

Students heard remarks from Principal, Ms. Faith Alcantara, a distinguished alumni now attending Orange High School, 6 -7th grade teachers, Ms. Meredith Spratt, Ms. Elizabeth Tague and Mr. Bernard Rawls and Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Ronald C. Lee. All celebrated the accomplishments of the students and encouraged them to continue to strive for success. Other faculty members were also on hand to greet each honoree and congratulate them for their achievement.

A light dinner was served for honorees, their families and invited guests.

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Pictured (left to right): Ms. Spratt, Heywood Alumni, student being congratulated by Principal Alcantara and staff.

The students honored are listed below:

High Honor Roll Recipients Railon Clement Tharaly Joseph Abigail Excellent

Honor Roll Recipients

Lindsley Chery** Amya Scantlebury Sheridan Hart Anselie Day Leslie Gonzalez Enrique Hernandez Harmoney Brown Cassandra Dawson Haleigh Hunter** Shaneria Champagne Isaiah Griffin Marihah Payton Evelin Rivera Ramirez Ashly Hertilen Jade Toussaint Kayla Fisher Jamelah Wallace** Kyla Craddock Samya Hewett Jahiem Azeez Shateria Champagne Dana Lucas Espinal ** Nia Hargrove William Tirado Ebony Nkrumah Angelica Deoleo Valentin Ja maarey Hall-Hawkins Edna Naomi Lucas-Espinal** David Fontanez

**Denotes student is also a “Perfect Attendance” Recipient

Pictured: Students being congratulated by staff.

Perfect Attendance Recipients Anthony Headley Amor Sanders Edna Naomi Lucas-Espinal Dana Lucas Espinal Sarah Orema Jevonnie Voltaire Jeffrey Voltaire Caleb Andrews Ryan Williams Jodan Elysee Lindsley Chery Jessica Jean Charles Gregory Orema Joshua Paulling Iziah Johnson Jamelah Wallace Kyra Brown Haleigh Hunter Jamaal Jordan O’Neil Johnson Justin McDaniel Mitchethela Alexandre

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National Junior Honor Society Students in the 6th and 7th grade, who met the criteria for the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), were inducted into the newly formed Heywood Avenue School Chapter of the organization. The group’s advisors are Ms. Meredith Spratt, 6th & 7th Grade English Language Arts and Mrs. Elizabeth Tague, 6th & 7th Grade Math/SLC Coordinator for Heywood Avenue Elementary. Students were presented with certificates, recited the National Junior Honor Society Pledge and were officially inducted into the society.

The National Junior Honor Society is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and character. (njhs.us)

Pictured (left to right): Mrs. Tague, Superintendent Lee, Mr. Rawls and NJHS inductee lighting candle.

Pictured (left to right): NJHS inductee reciting pledge, Mrs. Tague , Ms. Spratt and Ms. Alcantara with Heywood’s NJHS.

National Junior Honor Society Inductees:

6th Graders 7th Graders Neika Brown Jahiem Azeez Cassandra Dawson Shateria Champagne Isaiah Griffin Angelica Deoleo Valentin Edna Lucas Espinal David Fontanez Brevanna Stephen Sheridan Hart Jamelah Wallace Ashly Hertilen Haleigh Hunter Marihah Payton

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Celebrity Read at Cleveland Street School

On February 27, Cleveland Street School hosted a United Way of Essex and West Hudson Celebrity Read event. School Counselor, Mr. Daniel Turk, working with United Way representative Ms. J. Russo, coordinated the school’s event. The theme for this year’s program was “All My Heroes Read.” At Cleveland Street School, there were representatives from City Hall including Police Director Hakim Sims and Councilwoman Tency Eason, Lt. Orlando Soto, OPD, firemen, parents, staff and other members of the community.

“Created in 1990, Celebrity Read is a “local legacy” initiative that recruits volunteers from throughout New Jersey to model their love of reading and the pursuit of education as a pathway to success in local elementary classrooms.” (United Way of Essex and West Hudson)

Pictured (left to right): Celebrity Reader, Councilwoman Eason, Celebrity Reader, Hudson City Bank Branch Manager, and Celebrity Reader, Police Director Sims.

Pictured (left to right): Lt. Soto, Celebrity Reader, HUD representative, Celebrity Reader, Mrs. C.

Forest Street School Board Lobby Art Show

On March 4, Forest Street School hosted the Board of Education opening of the Forest Street Gallery Featuring Hats from the Hat City in the Valley. The gallery prominently displays artistically created hats by students, along with seasonally themed images such as “Birch Trees,” made using acrylic on canvas, “Sandbox Neighborhood,” artwork and more.

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Students were proud to show their work to family members, teachers and others there to view the exhibit. A special visitor

for the evening was Mr. Patrick

Morrissy, Executive Director of HANDS, Inc., a non-profit neighborhood revitalization organization with many efforts in the Valley Arts district, of which Forest Street School is a prominent resident. Also, adding to the Valley Arts and “hats” theme was a generous donation of refreshments by “Hat City” restaurant.

Students were presented with certificates for their work. Principal, Ms. Yancisca Cooke (pictured left) and Ms. Avril Bogle, Forest Street’s art educator, congratulated the students, along with Superintendent of

Schools, Mr. Ronald C. Lee, Supervisor of Visual and Performing Arts, Mr. Peter Crosta, and Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Belinda Scott Smiley. The exhibit will be on display at the Board of Education building through Friday, March 27. Visitors are invited to see the display during normal business hours, 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Pictured (above): Forest students with their certificate and Ms. Bogle, Ms. Cooke and Superintendent Lee.

Pictured (above): Scenes from the Forest Street Gallery opening.

Pictured: Mr. Morrissy with Ms. Bogle.

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FYI

2015-2016 Preschool Registration

The Orange Township Public School District began preschool registration for the 2015-2016 school year on March 2. All children who are residents of Orange and will be 3 or 4 years of age by October 1, 2015, are eligible to attend free, full day, pre-school, in the Pre-K 3 or Pre–K 4 class. The registration schedule is as follows:

• March 17,18, 24, 25 and 31, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with the last sign-in at 1:00 p.m.

Registration will take place at the Orange Early Childhood Center, 397 Park Avenue in Orange. Two proofs of residency are required, as well as child's original birth certificate and immunization record. Also, parent or legal guardian must show a current lease or mortgage statement and a picture ID. For more information, call 973-677-4500 ext. 1904 or 1918.

Essex County Summer Camps

Essex County Executive DiVincenzo invites children of all ages to participate in spring and summer camp opportunities at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo, Essex County Codey Arena and the Essex County Environmental Center. These affordable programs provide the campers with a fun and enriching experience while school is on recess.

Enroll your child at Essex County Turtle Back Zoo for some wild summer fun! The Zoo has several week-long camp adventures that will introduce children to the extraordinary world of animals, nature and science. For more details and pricing information, visit www.turtlebackzoo.com.

The Essex County Environmental Center is offering its 2015 Summer Camps for children in kindergarten to grade 4 in July and August. Children will explore and discover woodland and river habitats of insects, birds, amphibians, learn about life as a Lenape and much more. Sign up for one or two weeks per grade level. For information, call the Environmental Center at 973-228-8776.

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Essex County Codey Arena has a variety of camps and programs available for all skating levels and interests, from those learning to skate to experienced figure skaters, hockey players looking to improve their skills or speed skaters who want to learn a new sport. For more information, call 973-731-3828, Ext. 0.

Orange Public School District Dress Down Day Fundraiser

The Orange Public School District was deeply saddened by the loss of one of its Oakwood Avenue Community School students and her young brother in a tragic house fire. To aid her family and other school families displaced, as a result of the fire, the district will make a donation to the families through funds from a “dress down day” held February 25. Students and staff made voluntary contributions by wearing casual clothing.

The Orange Public School District offers their deepest sympathies to the family and thanks the school community for their generous donations.

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March 26 & 27 at 7:00 PM

March 28 at 2:00 & 7:00 PM

Orange Prep Auditorium

Call 973-­677-­4000 ext 5665for more information

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OBOE-Mail Blast March 20, 2015 Volume 4, Number 24

In This Issue: PARCC Testing

AIDA: The Musical

Strategic Planning

Read Across America at Forest Street, Rosa Parks Community and Heywood Avenue Schools

Orange Education Foundation Prize Presentation

Staff Team Building at Forest Street

Orange Prep Academy Employee of the Month

Kids in Concert 2015

FYI

• A Just & Safe Orange

• Board of School Estimates Meeting

• Pre-K Registration

Contact Information: Orange Board of Education 451 Lincoln Avenue Orange, NJ 07050 Send Us An Email

AIDA: The Musical Opens March 26

PARCC Testing Continues

The PARCC assessment will be administered to students in grades 9 - 12 at Orange High School, Orange Preparatory Academy and Career and Innovation Academy of Orange, beginning March 23, 2015.

As a reminder, the assessment is digital, therefore, students must bring their personal headphones for testing during the week. Additionally, students who are being tested are to turn in all cell phones to the testing teacher. All other students must have phones turned off during the testing period.

AIDA: The Musical Opens March 26 at Orange Prep Auditorium

The Visual and Performing Arts Department of Orange High School, in association with Orange Preparatory Academy, proudly presents AIDA: The Musical, on March 26, 27, and 28, at Orange Preparatory Academy Auditorium. This Tony and Grammy award winning musical is part dance spectacular, part rock concert and part timeless romance about an enslaved Nubian princess, her conflicted captor, and a forbidden love. Don’t miss your chance to see this spectacular production.

Performances are Thursday and Friday, March 26 and 27, at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 28, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. General seating tickets are $7.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door. Tickets for senior citizens and students (with a valid student ID) are $5.00. For more information, call (973) 677-4000 ext. 5665 or email lazzizro@orange.k12.nj.us.

Strategic Planning

The Orange Board of Education will hold the second of three meetings, to create a Strategic Plan, on Monday, March 30, at Lincoln Avenue School, located at 216 Lincoln Avenue (Jackson Street Entrance), from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. The final meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27. Invited participants are reminded to attend, to complete this process.

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The Board of Education hosted the first of three meetings on March 2. Over 100 participants, including Board members, district administrators, City officials, parents, staff members, students, educational partners and members of the community were in attendance. They received an overview of the Strategic Planning process and a district update.

Pictured: Scenes from the Strategic Planning Meeting. Superintendent Lee is pictured on the right.

Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Ronald C. Lee, gave a “State of the District” presentation. Facilitators from the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA), Ms. Charlene Peterson and Mr. Al Annunziata, presented 3-D Strategic Planning: Determination, Dreams and Destiny by Design. Following the two presentations, there was a brainstorming session where 8 teams developed district strengths/accomplishments and challenges. These outcomes are key components of developing a strategic plan. Highlights of some of the district strengths were the 90.4% Orange High School college acceptance rate for the graduating class of 2014, as presented by Mr. Lee, along with the district’s strong arts education program. Examples of challenges were high staff turnover and the number of student assessments including PARCC. A summary report compiled by the NJSBA of each group’s output have been compiled and are posted on the district website, along with additional details about Strategic Planning and meeting presentations.

During the March 30 meeting there will be another small group brainstorming session where the participants will outline their visions for the Orange Public Schools five years from now.

Pictured: Scenes from the Strategic Planning Meeting on March 2.

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Read Across America with Dr. Seuss at Forest Street School Submitted by Nuerones Plaisimond, Technology Coordinator, Forest Street School

For Read-Across-America Day, a celebration of reading and Dr. Seuss’s birthday, teachers were encouraged to work with their students to creatively decorate their doors in a way that displayed some of the great works of famous author, Dr. Seuss.

Additionally, students in grades 3-7

volunteered to visit Pre-K through 2nd grade classrooms to read stories to students written by Dr. Seuss. It was a wonderful experience for all, and, most of all, students learned the importance of making daily reading a life-long habit.

Pictured (above): Doors at Forest Street School decorated for Read Across America Day.

Rosa Parks Community School Celebrates Dr. Seuss’s Birthday

At Rosa Parks Community School, students celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday in a similar fashion.

Pictured, to the extreme left, is a door decorated by some of Dr. Seuss’s youngest fans. Students also celebrated with a variety of other projects, as illustrated in the photos shared by Guidance Counselor for grades K - 3, Ms. Cindy Pagano.

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Students created displays for one of Dr. Seuss’s all time best selling books, “The Cat in the Hat.” Pictured (above and left): Students share their Dr. Seuss projects and displays.

Heywood Avenue School Gets A Visit from “The Cat in the Hat” At Heywood Avenue School students also celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday with a visit from the illustrious “Cat in The Hat,” on March 9. The ‘Cat’ made a surprise entrance into the auditorium, as Principal Alcantara prepared to read a favorite Dr. Seuss book, selected by the students. The “Cat in the Hat” entered with cheers befitting a rock star! The students clamored to touch and hug the Cat. Ms. Alcantara asked the “Cat in the Hat” to join in the reading of the book as students followed along, reciting many of the verses they knew by heart. The New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), whose retired members don the 7-foot costume and visit children across the state, made the visit by the “Cat in the Hat,” possible. The ‘Cat’ was escorted by Speech Therapist, Ms. Lori Herzig.

Pictured: Scenes from “The Cat in the Hat’s” visit to Heywood Avenue School. Pictured above (center and right) Ms. Herzig, Ms. Alcantara and the ‘Cat’.

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Orange Education Foundation Award Presentation

Pictured (left to right): Ms. Gail Velox, Ms. April Stokes, Spelling Bee Champion, Principal Alcantara and Superintendent Lee.

On March 9, Ms. Gail Velox, President of the Orange Education Foundation, and Superintendent of Schools, Mr. Ronald C. Lee, visited this year’s District Spelling Bee Champion, 4th grader Emma McPherson, at Heywood Avenue School, to make a special presentation. After a brief discussion about the nature of the visit, Mr. Lee called Emma to the front of the class. He then introduced Ms. Velox, who again congratulated Emma and presented her with an LG Chromebase Desktop Computer.

Her classmates were both thrilled and encouraged to enter the district’s many academic competitions to vie for a chance to win similar prizes. Dr. Erica Stewart, who devised the District Spelling Bee of Champions, stated that Emma had a secret weapon for beating formidable competitors in higher-grade levels. Emma smiled and after a pause said that she “reads a lot.” Her teacher, Ms. April Stokes, and Principal, Ms. Faith Alcantara, were also present for her award.

Pictured (left to right): Presentation of computer to Spelling Bee Champion on March 9,2015.

Staff Team Building Activity at Forest Street School Submitted by Nuerones Plaisimond, Technology Coordinator, Forest Street School

On March 11, Forest Street staff (pictured left) engaged in team building activities for Professional Development Day. Physical Education teacher, Mr. Jacob Warta, developed creative activities that allowed staff to engage and share ideas for completing provided tasks. The first activity focused on working together to accomplish the goal of traveling as a team from one end of the gym to the other.

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Orange Prep Academy Employee of the Month for February Submitted by Ronald Jones, Math Resource teacher, Orange Preparatory Academy

Ms. Laverne Hayden, Administrative Assistant (pictured left) is the Orange Preparatory Academy Employee of the Month for February. Mr. Ronald Jones nominated her for teamwork, good attendance, and integrity. Ms. Hayden is a great team player who extends herself assisting faculty, staff and students with various tasks. During the planning of the honor roll assembly, she stayed late in the evening to create all of the student certificates and invitations for parents. She also worked fervently with the planning committee on the Black History Month program and was a major contributor to the Black History Staff Luncheon. Finally,

Ms. Hayden is a role model for those students who are sent for discipline issues to the Assistant Principal’s office. She takes the time to encourage them and share lessons about life.

Kids in Concert 2015

On March 13, Long Branch High School, hosted the Education Law Center's (ELC) annual Kids in Concert (KIC) event sponsored by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA). Now in its 17th year, KIC is a unique concert experience that offers students in New Jersey’s high need school districts the opportunity to develop and perform on one stage. Students in Kindergarten through 12th grade are selected to perform based on their submittal of videos of performances related to a pre-selected theme. This year’s theme was Broadway musicals. At the 2015 KIC, the Lincoln Avenue Dance Ensemble, accompanied by the Grade 5-8 Orange Instrumental Ensemble, as well as, the Park Avenue Dance Ensemble, were selected to perform at this Gala.

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Park Avenue Dance Ensemble, presented “Matilda The Musical” and the Lincoln Avenue Dance Ensemble, danced to “Little Shop of Horrors,” backed by live music from Heywood Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, Orange Prep Academy and Park Avenue school students. The Orange School District has been represented at Kids in Concert for the past 11 consecutive years. Staff advisors for these ensembles were instrumental music instructors Marianne Mroz, Sem Etienne, Dorcas Robinson, and Erin-Leigh Van Orden, as well as, dance instructors, Deborah Rembert and Michelle Rosolen. Visual and Performing Arts Supervisor, Peter Crosta, who photographed the performances, accompanied them. Images can be viewed at http://www.orangearts.net.

Pictured: (top) The Park Avenue Dance Ensemble; (bottom) The Lincoln Avenue Dance Ensemble and the Grade 5-8 Instrumental Ensemble.

Pictured (above): Scenes from Kids in Concert featuring the Park Avenue Dance Ensemble, The Lincoln Avenue Dance Ensemble with the Grade 5-8 Instrumental Ensemble.

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FYI A Just & Safe Orange

Khemani Gibson, current Orange Resident and NYU PhD student, has put together a panel called A Just & Safe Orange, to be held on Monday, March 23 at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Essex County, located at 35 Cleveland Street, at 6:00 p.m.

This will be a community conversation with elected Orange officials, representatives from the police department, youth, parents and more. The community will be able to hear from experts and explore what it means for Orange to be a just and safe city for all. Khemani is an Orange Public Schools alum and gave the 2014 OHS commencement speech. Board of School Estimates Meeting

The Orange Board of Education has scheduled its next Board of School Estimates Public Meeting, to present its 2015-2016 School Year Budget, on Friday, March 27, 2015 at 6:00 p.m., in the Administrative Offices, Board Conference Room, at 451 Lincoln Avenue.

2015-2016 Preschool Registration

The Orange Township Public School District began preschool registration for the 2015-2016 school year on March 2. All children who are residents of Orange and will be 3 or 4 years of age by October 1, 2015, are eligible to attend free, full day, pre-school, in the Pre-K 3 or Pre–K 4 class. The registration schedule is:

March 24, 25 and 31, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with the last sign-in at 1:00 p.m. Registration will take place at the Orange Early Childhood Center, 397 Park Avenue in Orange. Two proofs of residency are required, as well as child's original birth certificate and immunization record. Also, parent or legal guardian must show a current lease or mortgage statement and a picture ID. For more information, call 973-677-4500 ext. 1904 or 1918.

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March 26 & 27 at 7:00 PM

March 28 at 2:00 & 7:00 PM

Orange Prep Auditorium

Call 973-­677-­4000 ext 5665for more information

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OBOE-Mail Blast March 27, 2015 Volume 4, Number 25

In This Issue: Strategic Planning

Winter Break Readorium Challenge

AIDA: The Musical

OHS Delegates to the Congress of Future Medical Leaders

Oakwood Avenue Community School Teacher Selected for National Training Video

Park Avenue School Presents Harlem Renaissance: A Night at the Cotton Club

FYI

• Pre-K Registration

Contact Information: Orange Board of Education 451 Lincoln Avenue Orange, NJ 07050 Send Us An Email

AIDA and Strategic Planning

Strategic Planning

The Orange Board of Education will hold the second of three meetings, to create a Strategic Plan, on Monday, March 30, at Lincoln Avenue School, located at 216 Lincoln Avenue (Jackson Street Entrance), from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. Invited participants are reminded to attend and complete this process. For more details, visit www.orange.k12.nj.us.

Winter Break Challenge:

During the Orange School District’s Winter Break, February 16-22, science students who utilized Readorium,  an interactive software based program that promotes reading comprehension of science-based content, were challenged to read as many books as possible and/or put in as much time as possible, for a chance to be entered into prize drawings.

Each Readorium science class submitted the top three students with the greatest number of books read and the most time spent on Readorium during the week. Over 100 student names were entered into a grade-level drawing in which two students per grade level were randomly selected to win a variety of science-based kits and toys as prizes. The winners are as follows:

Grade Student School Teacher

Grade 3 Pricila Minhala Lincoln Ms. Cruz Grade 3 Kwadwoh Boampong Lincoln Ms. Torrenegra Grade 4 Briana Duchene Heywood Ms. Rawls

Grade 4 Cindy Rojas Rosa Parks Ms. Trapani Grade 5 Cynthia Juarez Lincoln Mr. O’Bryan

Grade 5 Aaisha Monroe Rosa Parks Ms. Hanke Grade 6 Stherlie Previlon Lincoln Mr. O’Bryan Grade 6 Janal White Oakwood Mr. Gonzalez

Grade 7 Shatrice Hertillien Cleveland Ms. Batemman Grade 7 Malik Chacon Lincoln Mr. Gulko

Grade 8 Ruthchamar Jolibois OPA Ms. Daniello Grade 8 Wilmaris Chanza OPA Ms. Daniello

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Readorium is a nonfiction comprehension program developed by Mtelegence. It teaches children (grades 3-8) to deeply understand the informational science text they read. Readorium focuses on the Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core topics. It's "smart" software, adapting to students' individual reading abilities, so they are always challenged but never lost. (readorium.com)

Below is a list of the top three students, at each grade level, whose names were entered into the prize drawings. “Each student is congratulated for their hard work and effort over the Winter Break,” says, Ms. Erika Hackett, Supervisor of Science for grades K - 7. Each student will receive a certificate of participation. Further, several students have already completed the program which includes over 60-books in the Readorium virtual library. They will also be acknowledged at a later date.

Gr. Student School Gr. Student School Gr. Student School

5 Michael Hannigan CSS 6 Tracy Ware Jr. LAS 3 Miller Hyppolite

RPCS

5 Christie Siloe CSS 6 Minoucha Previlon LAS 4 Faith Micourt RPCS 7 Shatrice Hertillien CSS 6 Stherlie Previlon LAS 4 Jairo Morocho RPCS 3 Jullian Desormes FSS 7 Keisha Opoku LAS 4 Cindy Rojas RPCS 3 Jason Figueroa FSS 7 Malik Chacon LAS 4 Jeane Exantus RPCS 3 Mia Goudet FSS 7 Diana Chauca LAS 4 Jean Joseph RPCS 4 Tazijuana Allen FSS 7 Joudenie Germain LAS 4 Midwife Jules RPCS 4 Tamara Correa FSS 7 Jeremy Mora LAS 4 Jonny Guaman RPCS 4 Sofia Correa FSS 7 Julien Harris LAS 4 Berline Cadet RPCS 4 Jahni Williams FSS 7 Myranda Lapaix LAS 4 Klynn Jackman RPCS 4 Carla Plaza FSS 7 Lofsna Raymond LAS 4 Jamal Koon RPCS

4 Kristiana Moore FSS 7 Suri Garcia LAS 4 Tashonda Moswenn

RPCS

5 David Soto FSS 5 Justin Jenkins OAS 5 Aaisha Monroe RPCS

5 Kayla Sampong FSS 5 Zaire Charles OAS 5 Ytamare Simeon RPCS

5 Jaden Oates FSS 5 Chris Pericles OAS 5 Henry Lliquicota RPCS

5 Jaden Oates FSS 6 Janal White OAS 5 Zahir Smith RPCS

7 Joshua Phillips FSS 6 Elijah Webb-Harris OAS 5 Christina Petite Frere RPCS

7 Frantz Jerome FSS 6 Desirae Thompson OAS 5 Yester Santamaria RPCS

4 YaSHeka Smith HAS 7 Cyndina Charles OAS 5 Dubenson Louis

RPCS

4 Briana Duchene HAS 7 Nayelis Fernandez OAS 5 Kervens Evra RPCS 4 King Berlin HAS 7 Ashanti Burton OAS 5 James Louis RPCS

3 Zalia Sika LAS 3 Pink, Joshua PAS 5 Carlendia Tunis

RPCS

3 Dianna Paul LAS 3 Odeyemi, Oluwafumilayo

PAS 5 Sandra Garcia RPCS

3 Kwadwoh Boampong LAS 3 Senatus, Tarah PAS 5 Mirian Arias RPCS 3 Alika Greene LAS 4 Autumn Tarver PAS 5 Dave Sentaus RPCS 3 Pricila Minchala LAS 4 Kelly Miller PAS 5 Elliot Holmes RPCS

3 Marc Mullally LAS 4 Arina Black PAS 5 Gianina Maldonado RPCS

4 Youdeline Noelson LAS 5 Aryanna Black PAS 5 Jessica Jeune RPCS

4 Oviany Philizaire LAS 5 Christian Earle PAS 5 Tasneem Mohamad

RPCS

4 Deborah Jean LAS 6 Benjarly Etienne PAS 8 Michael Sanchez

OPA

5 Cynthia Juarez LAS 6 Ibrahima Sacko PAS 8 Wilmaris Chanza OPA

5 Iris Camero LAS 7 Loudine charles PAS 8 Ruthchamar Jolibois

OPA

5 Karan Singh LAS 7 Arianna Thompson PAS 5 Tyler Williams LAS 7 Valentz Etienne PAS 6 Princeley Princilus LAS 7 Loudine Charles PAS

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AIDA: The Musical Opens March 26 at Orange Prep Auditorium

The March 26 opening of AIDA: The Musical was a spectacular show starring talented Orange High School and Orange Preparatory Academy students. The cast and crew presented the timeless tale of forbidden love, performing stirring songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, with emotion, energy and passion.

Don’t miss your chance to see this well acted, wonderful production, filled with well choreographed dance sequences and live music. The remaining performances are Friday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, March 28, at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. General seating tickets are $7.00 in advance and $10.00 at the door. Tickets for senior citizens and students (with a valid student ID) are $5.00. For more information, call (973) 677-4000 ext. 5665 or email lazzizro@orange.k12.nj.us.

Pictured: Scenes from AIDA: The Musical.

Orange High School Juniors Selected as Delegates to the Congress of Future Medical Leaders Submitted by Dr. Kalisha Morgan, Co-Principal, Orange High School and Dr. Latha Nair, Science teacher, Orange High School

Orange High School (OHS) juniors, Tyrel Edwards and Asheley Ashittey, were selected as delegates representing OHS at the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, which will be held in Boston, Massachusetts, June 24, 25 and 26, 2015.

The Congress of Future Medical Leaders is a highly selective national program honoring academically superior high school students dedicated to the service of humanity through medicine. At the Congress, Tyrel and Asheley will meet face-to-face with many

eminent scholars in the field of medicine and science including Nobel Prize winners and young inventors and scientists. They will view a surgery and have an opportunity to submit questions for the surgeon to answer, during the actual procedure.

Pictured (left to right): OHS Co-Principal Dr. Kalisha Morgan, Student Delegate Edwards, Co-Principal Jason Belton, Student Delegate Ashittey and Dr. Latha Nair.

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This year, the theme for the Congress is “Greatness Awaits.” The students will be mentored by some of the most important medical leaders of our time and will be encouraged to maintain a commitment to S.T.E.M. At the close of the 2015 Congress, delegates will be presented with an Award of Excellence.

The Congress was created by the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists to help students fulfill their dream of entering the medical profession. Students are chosen as delegates through nominations from members of this organization. As a member of the Academy’s Honorary Board of Educators, Dr. Latha Nair, Orange High School Science teacher nominated Tyrel and Asheley. Congratulations to the Orange High School delegates!

Oakwood Avenue Community School Teacher Selected to Model Instructional Best Practices for National Training Video Submitted by Robert Pettit, Principal at Oakwood Avenue Community School

The Children’s Literacy Initiative (CLI) was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in Philadelphia. “CLI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides educators with training and coaching in the most effective practices for early literacy instruction for prekindergarten through third grade.” cli.org

Kindergarten teacher, Ms. Kristin Kenny, has been working with CLI coach Sara Binnington for the past two years. During their time together, they have focused on the classroom culture and environment, implementing new procedures and routines, guided reading, interactive writing, as well as a writer’s workshop. Ms. Kenny has worked diligently to ensure best practices are taught to her Kindergarten students. She has seen improvement and success in her students’ academic and emotional growth, since working with CLI.

Late in the fall, Ms. Kenny was approached by CLI. They had heard what wonderful things were going on in her classroom and wanted to capture it on film, to share with other teachers and coaches across the country.

On March 18, the CLI staff and film crew visited Oakwood Avenue Community School and filmed a pre-conference coaching session with CLI Coach Sara Binnington and Ms. Kenny. They also captured a procedural lesson with Ms. Kenny and her students. The lesson was about how to be a responsible and an active listener during a read-aloud. After the lesson, the crew filmed Ms. Kenny and Ms. Binnington discussing the lesson.

Ms. Kenny and her students enjoyed the experience and thought it was a lot of fun to be “famous” for the day! Once the film is edited it will be used for CLI “Coaching Camps,” as well as professional development sessions for teachers.

For more information about the organization, visit cli.org.

Pictured (left to right): Ms. Binnington and Ms. Kenny.

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Park Avenue School Presents Harlem Renaissance: A Night at the Cotton Club

On March 18, Park Avenue School hosted a unique Black History Month program featuring students and staff members. The program, Harlem Renaissance: A Night at the Cotton Club began with opening remarks by students, Principal Dr. Myron Hackett and guest, Superintendent Ronald C. Lee, as well as a beautiful rendition of the Negro National Anthem (Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing) sung by Benjarly Etienne. The staged performance, led by the Park Avenue Theatre Club, opened with a teacher, played by teacher, Ms. Tamisha Shepherd, transporting her students on a trip back in time to the Harlem Renaissance. The Park Avenue Dance Ensemble treated the audience to several dance performances. They paid tribute to dance and vocal luminaries who performed at the Cotton Club including Josephine Baker, the Nicholas Brothers, Cab Calloway and Louis Armstrong. The Park Avenue Chorus sang “Blue Skies,” while Ms. Moore’s First Grade Class sang “Duke’s Place.” Students Jonathan Tarver performed, “I Dream a World,” and Quadir Smith performed “Dawn in New York.” Staff members showed their talents, as well, performing at the Cotton Club. Teacher, Ms. Anita Hicks, sang “God Bless the Child,” while staff member, Mrs. Johnnie Mae Scott performed, “I Have a Dream.” The evening was a warm gathering of parents, staff, and students, enjoying a wonderful program.

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Pictured (above): Scenes from Park Avenue School Presents Harlem Renaissance: A Night at the Cotton Club

Pictured (above): Scenes from Park Avenue School Presents Harlem Renaissance: A Night at the Cotton Club.

FYI

2015-2016 Preschool Registration

The Orange Township Public School District began preschool registration for the 2015-2016 school year on March 2. All children who are residents of Orange and will be 3 or 4 years of age by October 1, 2015, are eligible to attend free, full day, pre-school, in the Pre-K 3 or Pre–K 4 class. The final Spring registration session is

Tuesday, March 31, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., with the last sign-in at 1:00 p.m. Registration will take place at the Orange Early Childhood Center, 397 Park Avenue in Orange. Two proofs of residency are required, as well as child's original birth certificate and immunization record. Also, parent or legal guardian must show a current lease or mortgage statement and a picture ID. For more information, call 973-677-4500 ext. 1904 or 1918.

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March 26 & 27 at 7:00 PM

March 28 at 2:00 & 7:00 PM

Orange Prep Auditorium

Call 973-­677-­4000 ext 5665for more information

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