Dear Parents/Guardians and Students,

Welcome to another exciting school year at East Ward Elementary! We hope you had a restful and enjoyable summer. As we embark on the 2025-2026 school year, we are thrilled to reconnect with our returning families and extend a warm welcome to those joining us for the first time.

This year is especially momentous as we celebrate the graduation of our very first 8th grade class! We are incredibly proud of this achievement and the hard work of our students, teachers, and families who helped make this milestone possible. We look forward to watching this pioneering group continue to grow and excel as they move forward in their academic journeys.

As we plan for the upcoming year, please take the time to read this letter carefully, as it contains important information about the school year ahead.

At this point, you should have received access to all required forms that need to be completed prior to the start of the school year on SchoolMint, our digital platform. If you need assistance, please contact the school office at 973-522-4036 or 973-465-4886.

Please review the following information to help you get ready for the 2025-2026 school year:

First Day of School for Students:

The first day of school is September 2, 2025. ALL students must be in attendance as we expect 100% attendance on Day 1. All students should be in full uniform. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Student Arrival/Egress:

• Arrival Time: 8:10 AM
• Egress Time: 3:05 PM

Attendance:

Regular attendance is vital for student success. We will strictly adhere to District policy regarding attendance. Students with more than 10 unexcused absences will be placed on an attendance improvement plan, and failure to comply may result in meetings with a court representative and/or retention.

Summer Reading Assignment:

Summer Reading assig

nments are due on the first day of school, September 2, 2025. Visit the NBOE website for more information. Summer reading details were sent home in June.

 

School Supplies:

School Supply Lists are available on Class Dojo, Google Classroom, and were provided in June. Please make sure your child is prepared with the required materials.

You can find your child’s supply list here!

Back to School Night:

Back to School Night is on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 PM. This will be a great opportunity to meet your child’s teacher and learn more about our program and district curriculum.

Lunch Applications:

Every family is required to complete a lunch application online. This must be completed annually. Please visit the Newark Board of Education website to apply.

Our goal is to have 100% of students with applications on file before the start of school!

School Uniforms:

Newark Public School students are required to wear school uniforms: burgundy tops and gray bottoms. We recommend purchasing at least one shirt with the school’s name on it. Uniforms can be purchased at Kids Place on Ferry Street. Flyers were sent home in June and are also available via Remind app, Class Dojo, and Google Classroom.

Afterschool Excel Program:

The Afterschool Excel Program begins on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Pick-up by 5:30 PM.

Please visit the NBOE and East Ward Elementary’s website for further information.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership. Let’s make this school year one filled with growth, achievement, and joy as we celebrate the amazing milestones of our school community.

Translated Parent_Student Letter 25-26 SY.docx

Educationally Yours,

Rosa M. Inacio
Principal