Hello, everyone. This is Dr. George Solter, Superintendent of the North Bergen School District. We are now in February, and I have some important items to tell you about that are going on in our school district.
First, as we approach Presidents’ Day weekend, we take this opportunity to reflect on the leadership and legacies of those who have shaped the foundation of our nation. In our classrooms, our students will engage in immersive lessons that go beyond the history books. From interactive debates on executive decisions to creative projects exploring the civic virtues of leaders like Washington and Lincoln, our educators are bringing history to life. We encourage you to continue this exploration at home by discussing what leadership means to your family or perhaps visiting a local historical site. By connecting classroom instruction with real-world reflection, we empower our students to become the thoughtful, engaged citizens of tomorrow. We wish you all a safe, restful, and enlightened holiday weekend, and we will be off from school on Friday, February 13th, and Monday, February 16th.
Second, we are celebrating Black History Month. This is a vital time for our district to reflect on the profound legacy and indelible contributions of African Americans who have shaped the fabric of our nation. From the pioneers of the civil rights movement to the modern-day innovators in science, literature, and the arts, the accomplishments of Black individuals serve as a testament to resilience and excellence. In North Bergen, we take great pride in our diversity; it is our greatest strength. Throughout this month, our classrooms will engage in meaningful dialogue and lessons that honor these achievements, ensuring that our students recognize that Black history is, fundamentally, American history. Let us use this month not only to look back with gratitude but to look forward with a renewed commitment to equity, understanding, and the shared success of every student in our district.
Third, I am proud to invite our students, staff, and families to join us in observing American Heart Month. In North Bergen, we recognize that our mission goes beyond academic excellence; it encompasses the health and well-being of every individual in our schools. Heart disease remains a significant challenge across the nation, but through education, regular physical activity, and mindful nutrition, we can empower our children to build habits that last a lifetime. Throughout the month, our schools will be engaging in activities to raise awareness, including our participation in "National Wear Red Day" to show our collective support for heart health. I encourage you to use this time to have conversations at home about staying active and making heart-healthy choices. Together, we can ensure that our Bruin family remains strong, vibrant, and healthy for years to come.
Fourth, as we conclude the second marking period, I want to commend our students, staff, and families for their continued dedication and hard work throughout the first half of the school year. Please be advised that grades for this period will soon be available for review on the Realtime Parent Portal. This milestone serves as a vital opportunity to reflect on your child’s academic journey thus far. I encourage you to take this time to review their progress thoughtfully and, where necessary, initiate meaningful discussions with their teachers, guidance counselors, or building principals. We firmly believe that a strong partnership between home and school is the foundation of student success; therefore, we always welcome these conversations to ensure every student is making the necessary strides toward their full potential.
Lastly, following the recent snowstorm, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to the dedicated individuals who worked so hard to ensure our schools were safe and ready for our arrival. Our custodial and maintenance crews, along with our entire Board of Education support staff, went above and beyond to clear walkways, salt entrances, and ensure our facilities remained warm and operational. Their behind-the-scenes efforts are the backbone of our district's resilience. Furthermore, we are fortunate to have such a strong partnership with the North Bergen Police Department and our various town agencies. Their coordinated hard work with the challenges of the storm kept our community moving and our children safe. On behalf of the Board of Education, I thank all of these essential workers for their unwavering commitment to the North Bergen family.
As always, if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please email me at
[email protected].
