Guided by the visionary leadership of our dedicated parent coordinator, Ms. Gedeon, Madison Avenue School successfully hosted a Kindergarten Read-Aloud Breakfast. This event aimed to foster greater parental engagement in their children’s education, particularly in the areas of English Language Arts and early literacy, as kindergarten marks the critical stage where students begin their reading journey. The initiative sought to bring together parents over breakfast to read aloud to English, Spanish, and Creole students, enriching their multilingual experience. The Multilingual Learners Department generously supported the event by providing various resources, contributing significantly to its success.

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Madison Avenue School hosted a highly successful Christmas concert despite the absence of a dedicated choir director. Under Ms. Wright’s exemplary leadership, the entire team came together, showcasing remarkable collaboration and commitment to creating a truly memorable event for all attendees. Special recognition goes to our talented scholars for their dedication and hard work, which brought the performance to life with excellence.

On Thursday, October 31, 2024, the Chancellor Avenue School PTA hosted a “Trunk or Treat” event to celebrate Halloween while prioritizing the safety and well-being of our school community. Students received various delightful treats alongside essential hygiene items, including Colgate toothpaste and toothbrushes. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated teachers who generously contributed and stayed after school to distribute these items and ensure the event’s success.

Last year, I was honored to receive the Grove Street School Educational Services Professional of the Year award under the esteemed leadership of Dr. Cooper. This year, I am humbled to have been recognized with the same award under the guidance of Mrs. Tucker and Mr. Love. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my administrators and the educators who entrusted me with their votes for this distinction. This achievement would not have been possible without the openness and receptiveness of the incredible educators I work alongside, who welcomed my coaching and allowed me the privilege of entering their classrooms to collaborate and support their growth. Thank you, Chancellor Bulldogs! – Written By Dr. Marielle Ojentis

Fourth-Grade Students Shine in Essay Contests Submissions at Chancellor

Ms. Saint-Jean proudly guided her 4th-grade students as they participated in the district-wide Dr. King Essay Contest and the P.E.P. Essay Contest. For the Dr. King essays, Maria Laguerre and Nylah Geronimo explored the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., uncovering details about his remarkable leadership. They organized their ideas thoughtfully, engaging in meaningful discussions that inspired insightful writing.

For the P.E.P. essays, Brianna Burney and Dorson Anilus reflected on what they loved most about school. With Ms. Saint-Jean’s guidance, they brainstormed, structured their thoughts, and celebrated school life through personal and heartfelt narratives.

The students enjoyed the entire process—learning to organize their essays, gathering ideas, and expressing themselves clearly. This rewarding experience not only enhanced their writing skills but also deepened their confidence and pride in their work.

Positive Vibes – PBSIS (Positive Behavior Support in Schools) assembly brought our Chancellor community together to promote unity, positivity, and school pride. Students and staff gathered for an engaging event filled with motivational messages, team-building activities, and recognition of positive behaviors. A big thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this a memorable experience! Together, we’re building a stronger and more connected school

Berkeley Terrace Elementary: Cycle Two Highlights
As we wrap up Cycle Two at Berkeley Terrace Elementary, we reflect on the wonderful moments that brought our school community together. From heartwarming events to enriching experiences, the past few weeks have been full of joy and learning. Here’s a recap of the highlights:

Pancakes and Pajamas: A Cozy Family Night
On December 19th, families gathered for our Pancakes and Pajamas Family Night, a festive evening of fun, food, and togetherness. Dressed in their favorite pajamas, students, parents, and staff enjoyed delicious pancakes, steaming hot cocoa, and engaging holiday activities. This event brought smiles, laughter, and a warm sense of community to all who attended.

A Musical Celebration at the Winter Concert
Our school’s Winter Concert on December 13th was a resounding success! Students from grades K-5 showcased their singing talents under the guidance of Ms. Girvin, our dedicated music teacher. The school band, directed by Mr. Klein, impressed the audience with their harmonious performances. Families filled the room with applause, celebrating the hard work and talent of our young musicians.

Chuck E. Cheese’s Fundraiser Night
The Chuck E. Cheese’s Fundraiser on December 20th was a night to remember! Families and friends gathered to enjoy games, pizza, and laughter, all while supporting our school. The event was a fantastic way to end the cycle and demonstrated the strength of our school community in working together for a great cause.

Holiday Spirit in Full Swing at the Gift Shop and in the Classrooms
Our Annual Berkeley Holiday Gift Shop brought holiday cheer to students and staff alike. Throughout the week, students selected thoughtful gifts for their loved ones, learning the joy of giving during this special season. Thank you to everyone who helped organize this treasured event! Students and teachers participated in holiday spirit days where we wore festive outfits, made decorations for our classroom, and even got candy canes. Thank you to the SLC for making spirits bright!

Fifth-Grade Fun at Liberty Science Center
Cycle Two also included an unforgettable trip for our fifth-grade students. On November 20th, they visited the Liberty Science Center, where they explored fascinating exhibits, participated in hands-on learning, and deepened their understanding of the world of science. The trip inspired curiosity and left our students eager for more scientific discovery!

Cycle Two has been an incredible time of growth, joy, and connection at Berkeley Terrace Elementary. Thank you to our families, staff, and students for making these events so special. We look forward to more memorable moments in the upcoming cycle!

Cycle Two at Grove Street School has been filled with creativity, community, and holiday cheer! As we look back, we’re proud to celebrate the memorable events and activities that brought our school together. Here’s a recap of all the excitement:

Cookies and Canvas: A Creative Success
On December 20th, Grove Street School hosted Cookies and Canvas, a festive event that combined creativity with delicious treats. Students enjoyed munching on cookies while painting delightful snowman scenes on canvas. The event was a wonderful opportunity for students to express their artistic talents and celebrate the season together.

Smiles for Picture Day
November brought Picture Day, a time for students to dress their best and capture memories to last a lifetime. The smiles and excitement were contagious as students took their photos, and we thank all families for their support in making this day so special.

Friday Bake Sales: Sweet Success
Our ongoing Friday Bake Sales have been a hit! Each week, students, staff, and families come together to enjoy homemade treats while raising funds for school needs. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this delicious and meaningful tradition.

In our afterschool enrichment program, we are promoting STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education with our multilingual learners. Recently, we engaged in a creative and collaborative activity by building gingerbread houses. The scholars planned their designs, measured materials, and constructed their houses, integrating concepts of engineering and art while working in teams. This hands-on project not only stimulated their creativity and problem-solving skills but also supported the development of the four language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. They followed written instructions, discussed strategies with peers, described their designs, and reflected on how to improve the process, enhancing their communication skills in meaningful and fun ways.

At University Elementary School, the multilingual learners engaged in a research project about holidays celebrated around the world with Mrs. Trainor. Using a variety of resources, including books, videos, and online articles, the students gathered information about diverse cultural traditions and practices. They worked collaboratively in small groups to explore topics such as traditional foods, decorations, and customs associated with holidays like Diwali, Hanukkah, Lunar New Year, and Kwanzaa. The project supported the development of their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as they discussed their findings, created posters, and presented their research to peers. This activity not only enhanced their language proficiency but also fostered cultural awareness and appreciation for diversity.

The Afterschool Enrichment School Program at Florence Avenue is making significant strides in supporting students’ language development. Recently, students engaged in a focused lesson on verbs, distinguishing between actions occurring in the present and those that happened in the past. Under the guidance of Ms. Finkelstein, the students demonstrated a strong command of English grammar and usage, successfully identifying and applying verbs in both their writing and speaking. This activity not only enhanced their grammatical understanding but also fostered their ability to communicate more effectively, showcasing the program’s positive impact on their language acquisition journey.

Parent Nutrition Workshop Recap
On January 16th, Florence Ave Elementary hosted a successful Parent Nutrition Workshop led by Ms. Vita Bruno, a SNAP-Ed Nutrition Educator. Attendees enjoyed valuable nutrition tips, with refreshments and translation in Spanish and Creole provided.

Participants also had the opportunity to receive free produce (with reusable bags) and take part in free health screenings, including mammograms for women 40+ and pap smears for uninsured women aged 21-65. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this informative and empowering event!

Florence Avenue School Student Holiday Concert Highlights
Our annual Student Holiday Concert at Florence Avenue School was a festive and heartwarming celebration! Our students showcased their talents by performing beloved holiday classics, spreading joy and holiday cheer throughout the day. It was a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together and enjoy the music. A huge thank you to all the performers, teachers, and families who made this event a success. We look forward to more musical moments in the year ahead!

December Dojo Assemblies Recap!
Our December Dojo Assemblies were a huge success, celebrating student achievements and fostering school spirit! During the assemblies, students were proudly awarded certificates for outstanding behavior, highlighting their positive contributions to our school community. We also recognized those who earned Super, Honor, and Merit Roll honors for their academic excellence. To wrap up the festivities, students had the chance to participate in fun games and win exciting prizes! It was a wonderful way to end the year on a high note, and we look forward to even more accomplishments in the months ahead!

During this cycle at Mount Vernon Elementary School, several engaging events were held to foster community involvement and support student and parent engagement. On December 9th, a Technology Awareness Parent Workshop provided families with valuable insights into navigating digital tools. On January 17th, an Open Gym event encouraged physical activity and fun for students and families. The school hosted a Movie Night on January 24th, offering a cozy evening for the community to come together. Finally, on January 27th, the Irvington Health Department conducted a Parent Workshop, sharing essential health resources and information to promote well-being.

During this cycle at Thurgood Marshall School, several exciting events and achievements highlighted student success and staff recognition. The Excel After School Enrichment Program kicked off on January 6th, providing students with valuable learning opportunities beyond the school day. The school celebrated its Staff Members of the Month, honoring Ms. CJ for December and Ms. Pinnock for January, while also recognizing Ms. Jamila Jackson, a kindergarten teacher, as the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year for her outstanding dedication.

The Scholastic Book Fair took place the week of December 2nd, fostering a love of reading among students. Just before the holidays, the school hosted a Christmas Gifts Giveaway on December 20th, bringing joy to students and families.

Thurgood Marshall students also excelled in district competitions. Jay Cerda, a 4th-grade student in Mr. Milton’s class, won 1st place in the District Dr. Martin Luther King Essay Contest. Additionally, students from Mount Vernon Elementary achieved top honors in the PEP Essay Contest, with Solange’s Gedin (Grade 1) and Liam Francis (Grade 2) winning 1st place, and Alexia Duke (Grade 2) earning 2nd place. These accomplishments reflect the school’s commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

UMS PTA/MLLs Parent Night

On November 21st, University Middle School hosted its inaugural PTA/MLLs Parent Night. During this informative session, parents gained insight into the critical role of family involvement in their child’s academic success within the U.S. education system. They explored various strategies to actively engage in their child’s educational journey.

The program highlighted the district’s initiatives aimed at supporting the language needs of Multilingual Learners. Parents also learned about the ACCESS that MLLs must take annually to track and monitor their language development. In addition, they were introduced to the in-school counseling services available to support students’ social-emotional learning.

Parents also received valuable information about community resources designed to further assist their families.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated administrators, educators, and staff at University Middle School, whose tireless efforts contributed to the success of this event.

From Mr. Bussaco’s Desk: 2024-2025 Educational Services Professional of the Year

I am proud to endorse Cathy Clitus as our Educational Services Professional of the Year. Her role as a Multilingual Learner Specialist is marked by her dedication to the success and well-being of our students. She exemplifies #VALUESmatter in every aspect of her work, embodying our district’s mantra of “Building Our Community, One Student at a Time.”

Mrs. Clitus is a passionate advocate for all students, consistently going above and beyond to ensure that our students receive the highest standard of instruction. Her approach is both student-centered and data-driven, utilizing effective instructional practices that align with best practices in language acquisition and cultural inclusivity. Mrs. Clitus’ work does not stop within her classroom; she proactively collaborates with teachers across grade levels and subjects, providing them with resources, strategies, and tailored support to incorporate language development into their daily instruction.

Through Mrs. Clitus’ efforts, we’ve seen remarkable improvements in student engagement, comprehension, and academic growth, especially amongst our MLLs. She has been instrumental in fostering an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed. Her work has strengthened our school community and positively impacted student outcomes in tangible and lasting ways. Mrs. Cathy Clitus is an exemplary educator who has truly earned the recognition of Educational Services Professional of the Year.

UMS Holiday Door Decorating Contest

This year, once again, University Middle School staff and students came together to transform the school into a living holiday museum, fostering a spirit of celebration, creativity, and unity. As part of our social-emotional learning initiatives, this activity offered an opportunity for both students and staff to collaborate, express their creativity, and build meaningful connections. The event cultivated an atmosphere of camaraderie and shared joy throughout the school community.

We congratulate this year’s winners: Ms. Davis, our art teacher, who earned 1st place; Ms. Roper, one of our 8th-grade ELA teachers, who secured 2nd place; and Ms. Aguilar and Ms. Tamayo, our Spanish world language teachers, who shared 3rd place. Honorable mention goes to Ms. Delouis, our 8th-grade ESL teacher, for her outstanding contributions. A special shoutout goes to our talented 8th-grade ESL student, Louis Brown, for his exceptional creativity in designing artwork featuring Santa and Mr. Grinch.

We are proud of the effort and enthusiasm demonstrated by everyone who participated. Events like these remind us of the power of community and creativity in building a positive and inspiring school culture.

Martin Luther King Essay

Our Multilingual Learners, led by their Multilingual Learner Teachers—Ms. Delouis, Ms. Diop, and Ms. Little (6th grade)—received Honorable Mention for their MLK essay. Congratulations to 6th graders Widnaya Theano, Jahdiel Bermeo, and Abigaelle Guilloux; 7th graders Jason Morocho, Vanessa Elan Huguette, and Keily Mejia Cela; and 8th graders Damian Theano, Dalvin Cruz Cruz, and Jhostin Molina. We are proud of you!