Hello everyone, this is Doctor George Solter, Superintendent of the North Bergen School District. As we enter November, I want to share what's going on in our schools.
First, in October, we highlighted Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which focuses on early detection, routine screening mammograms, and support for individuals and families affected by breast cancer. In November, Men's Health Awareness Month (Movember) spotlights prostate and testicular cancer risks. Across the North Bergen School District, schools observe these months through engaging district-wide initiatives, including themed "Pink Out" spirit days, cancer awareness walks, fundraising drives, and health education lessons that foster a culture of wellness, empathy, and active support. By embedding these global movements into the school environment, the district helps destigmatize essential health conversations and unites schools around community well-being.
The primary message to parents, staff, and students is that proactive healthcare, empathy, and open communication can save lives. Parents and staff members are encouraged to lead by example by staying up to date on annual checkups, scheduling appropriate health screenings, and prioritizing their physical and emotional well-being alongside their daily responsibilities. For students, these months offer opportunities to learn healthy habits, practice compassion for those facing illness, and understand that seeking help, whether for physical symptoms or mental health, is a sign of strength. Together, the North Bergen School District community reinforces the importance of caring for oneself and supporting one another year-round.
Second, in our schools, Veterans Day is marked by meaningful traditions designed to bring history to life and show active gratitude for those who served. We host special school-wide assemblies where local veterans, including student family members, alumni, and staff, are welcomed as honored guests. Students participate by reading original essays and presenting hand-crafted tributes to each branch of the military. Throughout the week, classrooms engage in dedicated activities, such as writing personalized thank-you letters to active and retired service members, creating visual honor walls, and hosting Q&A sessions with guest speakers to hear firsthand accounts of military service.
Beyond the events themselves, these celebrations reflect our deep commitment to instilling core values of civic duty, selflessness, and respect in our students. By connecting directly with veterans, students move past abstract textbook history and gain a personal understanding of courage and public service. Recognizing these individuals ensures our local heroes feel genuinely appreciated by their community, while teaching young people the importance of honoring the freedoms and sacrifices that make our everyday lives possible.
Third, We celebrate Thanksgiving by bringing family and friends together under one roof to pause our routines and share a warm, festive meal. The day centers on preparing and enjoying classic dishes—from roasted turkey and savory sides to freshly baked pies—filling the home with comforting aromas and lively conversation. Beyond the kitchen, our celebration is built on shared moments, whether that means watching the morning parade, gathering to play games, or simply relaxing together and catching up on each other's lives.
To instill the true meaning of the holiday, we make gratitude an intentional practice rather than just a passing idea. Around the dinner table, each person takes a turn reflecting on and sharing what they are most thankful for from the past year, helping younger generations understand the value of appreciation and perspective. We also emphasize that giving thanks extends beyond our own household, encouraging acts of generosity—such as donating to local food drives or helping neighbors—so the spirit of the holiday is grounded in kindness, community, and heart.
Lastly, as we reach the end of the month, we will be officially completing our first marking period of the school year. To discuss your child's academic progress and foster a strong partnership between home and school, we invite you to attend our upcoming Parents' Night events. Meetings will take place on November 30th for the High School, December 1st for the Nicholas J. Sacco Junior High School, and December 2nd for our Elementary Schools.
Please keep in mind that Parents' Night is far from the only opportunity to connect with our staff. We strongly believe that ongoing collaboration is key to student success, and our educators are accessible throughout the entire academic year. You are always encouraged to reach out to your child's teachers by phone or email whenever you have questions, concerns, or updates to share regarding their progress.
As always, we ask that you keep your contact information accurate in our student information system, Realtime. And if you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please email me at
[email protected]
Dr. George Solter Jr.
