The Newark Literacy Movement
We all know how important literacy is by third grade-that's why I was proud to secure funding to support The Newark Literacy Movement initiative. We're thrilled to continue this exciting effort for a second year! I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Newark Public Schools and the Superintendent for helping to bring the gift of reading to our community. We hope you and your family enjoy this special time together through the joy of reading!
Click on the buttons for an important message from NJ Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz.
About Our School
At South Seventeenth Street School, we are raising the bar to increase student achievement through the effective implementation of the standards based curriculum. We will elevate the level of rigor in our daily instructional practices. Student achievement growth is measured socially, emotionally, and academically. South Seventeenth Street School is a community where children are learning every day.
Welcome Back, Eagar Beaver Families!
Español: Leer la Carta de Bienvenida
August 10, 2026
Dear Eager Beaver Families,
Welcome to another exciting school year at South Seventeenth Street School! It is my honor and privilege to continue serving as your principal. Whether you are returning or joining our school community for the first time, we are thrilled to welcome you to our Beaver family!
Last year, our students made academic gains and celebrated many achievements. Those successes were made possible through the hard work of our dedicated staff and the support of our families. Together, we are ready to build on that momentum and make this school year our best yet with our 2026–2027 school theme: "Building a Better Future, One Beaver at a Time!" This year’s theme reminds us that every lesson learned, every goal achieved, and every act of kindness helps shape a brighter future. Your partnership makes all the difference! Please help your child succeed by:
- Arriving at school on time every day
- Reading 20 minutes each evening
- Monitoring homework and academic progress
- Staying connected with teachers and school staff
- Review our Core Belief with your child. (Click here)
- School Supply List Link
Important Back-to-School Information:
- School Day: 8:15 am to 3:05 am (School Doors Open Daily at 7:30 am)
- 1st Day Logistics (Ingress/Egress): Main Entrance: Grades 4-8, Primary Entrance: Grades PreK-3; South 18th Entrance: Bus Students/Students scheduled to ride the school bus (All entrances will be clearly marked).
- Cell Phone Policy: All cell phones and Electronic Devices must be powered off and will be collected. (Click Here)
- Lunch Application & Re-Enrollment: Must be completed to attend trips or receive Chromebooks. Apply (Click Here) and update info in SchoolMint.
- Summer Reading: Assignments are due on the first day of school and can be found linked here and on the NPS website with additional resources https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/summer-reading-list/2026-books/
- Uniform Guidelines: (Note: Students must be in full uniform on the first day of school)
- Tops: Navy Blue shirt; Bottoms: Navy Blue pants or skirt
- PE Days: Blue T-shirt and blue sweatpants (sneakers required; no Crocs or open toes)
Key Dates to Remember:
- Welcome Back/Backpack Event: August 27, 2026, 1:00- 3:00 PM (Supply giveaway; applications required for entry)
- First Day of School: September 8, 2026
- Back to School Night: September 29, 2026, 6:00–8:00 PM
- Programs: After-school and tutoring begin in September (TBA)
Our Parent Liaison, Ms. Tyeshia Bray, is available to support your family throughout the year at tqbray@nullnps.k12.nj.us. For up-to-date information, visit our school’s website (Click Here). Thank you for trusting us with your children each day. We can't wait to welcome everyone back on Tuesday, September 8th!
With gratitude,
Principal Williams
Mission Statement
At South Seventeenth Street School, our mission is to ensure that each student is prepared for college and a career by providing rigorous standard-based daily instruction, meeting social and emotional needs, and fostering a sense of being a responsible member of their community.
Vision Statement
At South Seventeenth Street School, our vision is to maintain a school that is highly regarded for consistently demonstrating academic excellence and commitment to developing the “whole” student. Administrators, teachers, staff and stakeholders will provide a safe environment where students are comfortable at taking risks. In addition, our rigorous, standards-based instructional program will enable all students to meet the challenges of the future with confidence and compassion.
Learner’s Creed
“I believe in myself and my ability to do my best at all times.
Just for today:
I will listen,
I will speak,
I will feel,
I will think,
I will read,
I will write!
I will do all of these things with one purpose in mind:
To do my best, and to not waste this day, for this day will come no more.
