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Hilldale Raises $1,500 for ALS with Ice Bucket Challenge Hilldale Elementary School raised $1,500 for ALS with an Ice Bucket Challenge in which 32 teachers participated on May 26, 2023.

Students Voted for 32 Teachers and Staff Who Participated in Ice Bucket Challenge - Students and staff at Hilldale Elementary School raised nearly $1,500 for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). The Hilldale Student Council organized the May 2023 event, which culminated in a massive Ice Bucket Challenge that concluded the school’s annual field day.Throughout the month of May, the Student Council encouraged the student community to research Lou Gehrig, the baseball player who died from ALS. A Lou Gehrig biography was read by the school. Additionally, each morning Student Council Representatives made speeches on the PA about each of the nominated teachers and staff. The PA presentations created excitement for the upcoming Ice Bucket Challenge. In order to see their favorite teachers participate in the Ice Bucket Challenge, the friendly competition inspired the student body to raise funds for the ALS Association.

Days of Appreciation - Superintendent's Column May 26 Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Montville Township Public Schools

Days of Appreciation - One of the key foundations to America’s greatness is its public schools.  Allowing students access to a free and public education sets America apart from many other countries and gives all children the opportunity to succeed. The success of this education system is seen during the months of May and June.  The schools recognize student achievements of the past year, inductions into the honor societies are conducted with reverence, concerts showcase the results of many hours of practice, playoffs highlight the best teams on the athletic fields, and promotion and graduation ceremonies indicate the children completed the requirements asked of them and are ready to move on to the next level of life. 

Original Character Education Musical Presented by Valley View 4th Grade Students Music Teacher Samantha Ivins wrote the script and arranged the music for the  original presentation One nation With Character. The concert was performed aby Valley View's 4th grade.

“One Nation With Character,” was presented by Valley View's 53 fourth grade students - “In addition to singing, every student in this production has a speaking part, as well as a part where they are playing Orff instruments,” music teacher Samantha Ivins said. “Everything aligns with both 4th grade music standards and Valley View’s Character Education curriculum.” Ivins wrote the script and arranged the music.

Montville Township BOE Member Dr. Karen Cortellino Elected President of the New Jersey School Boards Association Montville Board of Education member Dr. Karen Cortellino was elected as president of the New Jersey School Boards Association during the organization’s semiannual Delegate Assembly.

Dr. Karen Cortellino was elected as president of the New Jersey School Boards Association - Cortellino has been a member of the Montville Township Board of Education since 2006, serving as its president from 2010 – 2016. She has also served on every standing board committee, as well as various ad hoc committees. Cortellino served as the vice president for legislation/resolutions for NJSBA for four years, 2019 – 2023. She also served as an NJSBA board of directors member, as president of the Morris County School Boards Association, and was a member of the MCSBA Legislative Committee. She has earned the designations of Certified Board Member, Master Board Member and Certified Board Leader through the NJSBA Board Member Academy and is the first recipient of the Irene LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award, as presented by the Morris County School Boards Association, in June 2022.

Third Quarter MTHS ShopRite STARS Honored by Montville Township BOE 3rd Quarter ShopRite STARS are: Karl Monaco, Leadership; Sarina Dang, Community Service; Grace Kowalski, Athletics; Laura Justnes, Arts; and Gabriella Giudice, Academics.

Five MTHS Students Receive Recognition for Excellence - The five were named Third Quarter ShopRite Stars for the 2022-2023 school year. They have been honored both by Sunrise ShopRite in Parsippany, and MTHS. The five 3rd Quarter ShopRite STARS are: Karl Monaco, Leadership; Sarina Dang, Community Service; Grace Kowalski, Athletics; Laura Justnes, Arts; and Gabriella Giudice, Academics.

District Enrollment Analysis Update - May 11, 2023 LOGO Montville Township Public Schools

Elementary Enrollment Reflects Community Growth - Montville Township Public Schools are highly desirable due to outstanding results including high test scores, a near-perfect high school graduation rate, 94% of students attending college, and consistently impressive ratings and rankings by various agencies. While much of this enrollment is attributed to increased birth rates, the recent demographic study also outlines additional growth from more people moving into town with families. Overall, growth will continue to challenge class sizes at the elementary level. At the May 9, 2023, Montville Township Board of Education Meeting, the Board viewed a Referendum Proposal Presentation, which was followed by a Financial Presentation. As mentioned in earlier letters this year, district enrollment currently exceeds capacity at the elementary school level. Elementary enrollment for fall 2023 is projected to exceed capacity by 149 students and will continue to grow.

Second Quarter ShopRite STARS Honored by Montville Township Board of Education The Montville Township Board of Education honored the five second quarter ShopRite STARS on February 21, 2023, Ian Williamson  -Academics, Matthew Gagliardo -Athletics, Isabella Panico -Arts, Ashley Xiang -Leadership, Kristina Pruksa -Community Service.

Five Montville Township High School Students Receive Recognition for Excellence in Academics, Athletics, Arts, Community Service and Leadership -The Montville Township Board of Education honored the five second quarter ShopRite STARS on February 21, 2023.Ian Williamson (Academics), Matthew Gagliardo (Athletics), Isabella Panico (Arts),Ashley Xiang (Leadership), and Kristina Pruksa (Community Service.

First Quarter ShopRite STARS Honored by Montville Township Board of Education First Quarter ShopRite STARS: Brendan Glennon, Academics; Joe Rehberg, Athletics; Yoo Jin Kang, Arts; Sahana Vaidya, Community Service and Shriya Minocha,Leadership

Five Montville Township High School Students Receive Recognition for Excellence in Academics, Athletics, Arts, Community Service and Leadership - Congratulations to these outstanding ShopRite STARS: Brendan GlennonAcademics; Joe RehbergAthletics; Yoo Jin Kang - Arts; Sahana Vaidya - Community Service and Shriya MinochaLeadership. Superintendent Dr. Thomas A Gorman and BOE Vice President Michael Palma presented the awards.

New Seeing Eye Puppy Arrives on National Puppy Day Quillan, a puppy in The Seeing Eye©, Inc. training program was delivered to Lauri Schmitt at Montville Township Public Schools on National Puppy Day.

Quillan is the 26th Service Dog Trained in the Montville Township Public Schools District - Just in time for National Puppy Day, Quillan, a 7-week old Seeing Eye©, Inc., puppy, arrived at the Montville Township Public Schools district offices. Quillan, a male, black lab and golden retriever mix, is one of several puppies born in the past two months at the Morristown-based The Seeing Eye©, Inc. facility. Quillan was born to a litter of “Q” puppies. Coincidentally, March 23, 2023, was National Puppy Day. It was on this important national day of recognition that Quillan was delivered to Lauri Schmitt at the Montville Township Public Schools district offices.

Superintendent's Letter Regarding Lazar Social Media Threat

A Letter to the community from Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, March 24, 2023

Congratulations Dr. Karen Cortellino! Montville Twp. BOE Member Nominated to serve as NJSBA's 2023-2025 President Montville Township Board of Education Member Dr. Karen Cortellino has been named as New Jersey School Boards Association's Nominating Committee's pick for NJSBA's 2023-2025 President.

An experienced BOE member, Cortellino has been a dedicated and active BOE member at the local, county, and state level since winning a seat on the Montville Township Board of Education in 2007 - Cortellino was chosen from two candidates who applied for the 2023-2025 NJSBA President position. An active member of the Montville Township Board Education, Cortellino as served as a member at large, President, and Vice President in Montville Township. Simultaneously she has also held leadership roles in the Morris County Schools Boards Association and the NJSBA.

Lazar Production of The Music Man, Jr. Rolls Into Montville Township High School March 23 and 24 Robert R. Lazar Middle School will present the Broadway Junior production of Meredith Willson’s THE MUSIC MAN, JR. on March 23 and 24 at 7:00 p.m. at the Montville Township High School Auditorium, at 100 Horseneck Road in Montville. 

Lazar Middle School Production Features 70 Song and Dance Performers - Robert R. Lazar Middle School will present the Broadway Junior production of Meredith Willson’s THE MUSIC MAN, JR. on March 23 and 24 at 7:00 p.m. at the Montville Township High School Auditorium, at 100 Horseneck Road in Montville.  Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online at https://lazarms.seatyourself.biz. Cash tickets will also be available at the door on show nights. Lazar students may also purchase tickets using cash or check at lunch times. 

Sounds of Silence - Superintendent's Column April 2023 Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Superintendent of Montville Township Public Schools.

Sounds of Silence - When driving down the road the other day, I saw a mother and daughter in a car approaching in the oncoming traffic lane.  I saw the teenage daughter smiling ear to ear as she was waving her hands and animatedly telling a story she was so excited to share.  The mother, who was driving the car, had a smirk on her face as she kept her eyes on the road and listened intently.  While I can only guess that there was music on in the car, I could see that neither was on their cell phone and they were conducting an age-old ritual called verbal communication. I could not hear what was being exchanged between the two of them, but I could tell it was one of those pleasant moments shared between a mother and a daughter...

Artificial Intelligence - Superintendent's Column March 2023 Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman

Artificial Intelligence - Superintendent's Column March 2023 - Once again, education finds itself on the edge of a new frontier with the announcement of ChatGPT artificial intelligence and similar type products just a few months ago. This new technology can compose music, detect cancer images, and write student essays. While still in its infancy, artificial intelligence will only improve in its accuracy and ability to assist mankind. It is not perfect but it is becoming unexpectedly human...

Dreams - Superintendent's Column February 2023 Dr. Thomas A. Gorman  Superintendent of the Montville Township Public Schools.

Dreams - Superintendent's Column February 2023 - As children, we all have wonderful dreams about what it will be like in the future for ourselves and the world. Many dream big, while others may have smaller ideas, but all children envision a future that is bright, bold, and better than what we know. As we grow older, some dreams change, and some may even fade away, but the idea of how things could be may still smolder inside all of us... See More

Innovation in Password Cybersecurity Presented to BOE by MTHS Senior Jenna Iervolino Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Computer Club Advisor Laura Fuhrmann, MTHS Senior Jenna Iervolino, MTHS Principal Douglas Sanford, and Montville BOE President Dr. David Modrak.

Customized Algorithm to Enhance Password Protection and Cyber Safety Developed During MTHS Independent Study - Jenna Iervolino recently presented to the Montville Township Board of Education. Through extensive research, the Montville Township High School senior developed an original algorithm for calculating secure passwords. The presentation showcased Iervolino's MTHS Independent Study Project. Iervolino’s project is just one piece of her overall thesis that is focused on helping people avoid Social Engineering Cyber Security threats. WATCH PRESENTATION ON YOUTUBE

American Writers Museum Selects Two Lazar Students to Sit on National Advisory Board Seventh grade students Jackson Greeley and Zaara Mehta are pictured holding gear they received from the American Writers Museum. The two young authors have been selected to serve on the Chicago-based museum’s Student Advisory Board.

The 7th Grade Students are the Only New Jersey Delegates to the Museum’s Student Advisory Board - Jackson Greeley and Zaara Mehta have been selected to serve on the American Writers Museum Student Advisory Board. The young authors, are the only New Jersey delegates on the Chicago-based museum’s Student Advisory Board. One of the goals of the American Writers Museum Student Advisory Board is to help the museum reach beyond Chicago by offering opportunities and programs to students throughout the United States. Co-Advisors to Student Council Danielle Vytell-Mitschele and Gabe Rios nominated Jackson Greeley and Zaara Mehta to serve on the American Writers Museum Student Advisory Board

Colorful and Amazing, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” Comes to MTHS March 2nd - 5th Montville Township High School junior Joseph Amoroso will portray the title role of Joseph in the Montville Township High School Theatre Company’s production of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT March 2 - 5, 2023 at MTHS.

Fast-Paced Family Fun - See the dazzling MTHS Spring Musical at MTHS. JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT features MTHS performers and students who auditioned from Lazar, Cedar Hill, Valley View and William Mason. Performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday, March 2, 3, and 4, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. A Sunday, March 5, matinee will be also performed at 2:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at-the-door or in advance at: http://mthsnj.booktix.com/

"Giveback Days" - District Will Be Closed Friday, April 21 & Tuesday, May 30, 2023 

If No Further Emergency School Days are Used, the District Will Be Closed on Friday, April 21 and Tuesday, May 30, 2023 - For 2022-2023 the District has five emergency school closing days built into the school calendar. When three or fewer of the days are not used, they are returned to the community. Therefore, if no further emergency school days are used, the District will be closed on Friday, April 21 and Tuesday, May 30, 2023. If, for any reason, the District needs to close prior to the use of these days, then the schools will be open on the above mentioned day(s) as necessary. Enjoy the “giveback days.”

STARBOOKS Café Introduces Lazar Students to BOOKtasting Welcome to the Robert R. Lazar Middle School STARBOOKS Café BOOKtasting. The event is designed to inspire students to embrace reading opportunities that explore a broader perspective on authors and genres.

District's Middle School Media Center Offers Six Table Tastings of Delightful Delicacies from Mystery to History - “Would you like more than a sip of this book?” is an important question at the Robert R. Lazar Middle School STARBOOKS Café BOOKtasting. Claudia Heim is the School Librarian at Lazar in Montville Township, New Jersey. To inspire students to explore reading, and to offer them a broader perspective on authors and genres, Heim annually holds a BOOKtasting at her STARBOOKS Café. Appointed with tables adorned in red and white checked tablecloths, the Lazar STARBOOKS Café boasts a diverse variety of table tastings of books from mystery to history. Each of the middle school’s 726 students, in grades six through eight, attends the STARBOOKS Café during their regularly scheduled English Language Arts [ELA] class. “I wanted to open the students up to genres that they never before would have thought that they would like,” Heim explained when asked how she developed the STARBOOKS Café BOOKtasting activity.

Montville Township High School Chinese Honor Students Land 2nd Place Prize in New Jersey Chinese Singing Contest Montville Township High School seniors Yoo Jin Kang and Nicole Nieradka competed in the New Jersey Chinese Teachers Association [NJCTA] singing contest. and won 2nd Place in the state.

The Singers Will Present Their Award-Winning Performance at MTHS on Thursday, February 16. They Topped 25 Other Schools in the New Jersey Chinese Teachers Association Competition - Yoo Jin Kang and Nicole Nieradka competed in the New Jersey Chinese Teachers Association [NJCTA] singing contest and received a 2nd Place Award for Outstanding Achievement. Kang and Nieradka competed against 25 other NJ schools to earn this top standing. On Thursday, February 16, 2023, Kang and Nieradka will perform their “Plum Blossom” poem singing at the MTHS Chinese Honor Society’s Annual Chinese New Year Showcase. The vibrant and colorful Annual Lunar New Year event is a delicious and entertaining evening. All Montville Township families and residents are invited to attend. This February, the 2023 showcase will celebrate the Year of the Rabbit and will feature many live performances. In addition to Kang and Nieradka’s “Plum Blossom” poem singing, members of the MTHS Chinese Honor Society will perform fan and ribbon dances, a dragon dance, lead Kung Fu activities, and host calligraphy and cuisine demonstrations.  

8 MTHS Musicians Selected for NJSMA Region I Ensembles MTHS Band Teacher is Ellis Jasenovic, Sophomore Brian Lee (Clarinet), Freshman Ann Cao (Violin), and MTHS Orchestra Teacher is Andrew Havington.

Musicians Ranked in Top Levels - Eight Montville Township High School student musicians were selected, through competitive auditions, to perform in North Jersey School Music Association Region I ensembles. The announcement was made on January 10, 2023, by NJSMA Region I of the New Jersey Music Educators Association. The eight MTHS students ranked high in the North Jersey Region competition.

Down to the Wire and the Winter Pep Rally Exhibition Game Went to the Teachers By 1 Point With a final score of 21 - Teachers, to 20 – Students, the competition was literally anybody’s game from tip-off to final buzzer.

Students Led Much of the Action, But Lost 21 to 20 in the Final Seconds - Both sides played to win. In a match that was razor close from start to finish, the Montville Township High School Winter Pep Rally exhibition basketball game, between Teachers and Students, had the nail-biting crowds on the edges of their seats. With a final score of 21 - Teachers, to 20 – Students, the competition was literally anybody’s game from tip-off to final buzzer. Students led the score board with just a half a minute left in the action. With seconds left in the game, Teachers moved ahead. In the final two seconds it appeared students might regain the lead, but the buzzer sounded leaving Teachers in the winning slot.

Lazar Student Council Coordinated Gift Card Drive That Provided Holiday Wishes for Over 280 Children and 7 Families. The Lazar Middle School gift card drive provided holiday gifts to over 280 children and 7 families.

December Initiative Raised Over $4000 and Delivered 5 Vans Filled with Items - Lazar Student Council students helped to fill holiday wishes for over 280 children and 7 families this past holiday season. They set a goal for $883 in gift cards. Surpassing their goal, they collected more than $4,000 in gift cards. They used the cards to purchase, wrap and deliver wish list gifts for New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency [DCPP] families and children in foster care, as well as Montville community families, and the St. Peter’s Orphanage for boys in Denville. Item such as coats, boots, car seats, helmets, gifts, and more were purchased with the gift cards.

Kindergarten Registration Opens Tuesday, January 10, 2023 Kindergarten Registration is open Tuesday, January 10, 2023 through Monday, February 13, 2023 in Montville Township Public Schools

On-Line Registration Must Be Completed Before Monday, February 13, 2023 - The 2023-2024 Kindergarten Registration deadline is Monday, February 13, 2023. Instructions and details regarding the entire Kindergarten Registration process can be found on-line at www.montville.net. From the home page on montville.net Parents and Guardians are reminded to scroll down to the QUICK LINKS tab on the lower right, and from there scroll down to STUDENT REGISTRATION or click here.

Montville Township Police Department Opens Work Study Program to Montville Township High School Students MTPS Superintendent Dr. Thomas Gorman, MTPD Police Chief Andrew Caggiano, MTHS junior Justin Scilingo, MTHS senior Alexssio Lopez, MTPS Supervisors Erica Cerilli-Levine and Tara Monaco, and Kevin Fallon,

New Program Provides Opportunities to Develop Understanding As Well As Work Place Skills - Sergeant Scott McGowan and Montville Township Public Schools Educator [MTPS] Kevin Fallon identified a need for students to have additional opportunities to develop work place skills. Working with Jessica Aluotto of Community Personnel Services [CPS], they drafted a prototype proposal for a Work Study Intern program at the Montville Township Police Department [MTPD]. Students who participate in this career exploration opportunity will learn filing, data entry, and organizational skills for the Records Bureau. On Tuesday, January 10, 2023, the Work Study initiative finally was able to be implemented. Senior Alexssio Lopez and junior Justin Scilingo are the first Montville Township High School Work Study interns. The two were chosen to launch the inaugural cooperative MTPD, MTHS, MTPS and CPS Work Study assignment.

“Elf on the Shelf or Raj on the Roof?” Cedar Hill Principal, Dr. Michael Raj Embraces Beloved Holiday Tradition Dr. Michael Raj, Principal of Cedar Hill Elementary School in Towaco, New Jersey, wore an elf costume and sat on the roof as students arrived for the school day on Tuesday, December 20, 2022.

Surprised Students Were in Awe of Elf on the Roof As They Arrived to School on Tuesday, December 20 - Dr. Michael Raj, Principal of Cedar Hill Elementary School in Towaco, New Jersey, wore an elf costume and sat on the roof as students arrived for the school day on Tuesday. Photos of the event were posted on social media with the caption: “Elf on the Shelf or Raj on the Roof…you decide.” Reactions to the spin on the beloved holiday tradition have been joyful and excited.

“Always Connected,” Presented by Sergeant Tom Rich, is an In-person Cyber Security Event Designed to Help Everyone Safely Navigate On-line   “Always Connected,” a social media safety presentation by Sergeant Tom Rich, will be presented for Parents and Guardians of K-12 students on Tuesday, January 24 at 7:00 PM at the Montville Township High School auditorium.

Montville Township Public Schools Counseling offers Parents and Students in Grades 4 through 12 Tools to Assist in Navigating Social Media - Sergeant Tom Rich, will present “Always Connected” to Parents and Guardians on Tuesday, January 24 at 7:00 PM at the Montville Township High School auditorium. This social media safety event contains important information regarding the value of social media as well as the dangers. “This is a really important presentation, said senior Jessica Burns, following the 8:15 a.m. “Always Connected” presentation at MTHS. “It’s very informative, and so important. People need to know that what they do on-line follows them forever.”

"The Positive Parent," a Virtual Presentation for Parents and Guardians Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 7:00 PM - Therapist and Certified Positive Psychology Coach Diane Lang will discuss how to raise children to be optimistic

Thursday, December 15, 2022, at 7:00 PM - Therapist and Certified Positive Psychology Coach Diane Lang will discuss how to raise children to be optimistic and resilient, what types of environments nurture children toward a positive lifestyle, and how to become the role model your children want to follow. A virtual program for K-12 parents and guardians. Join us on Zoom at 7:00 PM: www.montville.net/parentprogram

Resolutions - Superintendent's Column January 2023 Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman writes the Superintendent's Column, a monthly examination of education and perception.

Resolutions -  Each New Year’s Eve is an opportunity to make New Year Resolutions. This clear demarcation to make the next year better than the last is filled with optimism and hope. Creating SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timely) goals is one way to accomplish what one sets out to achieve. SMART goals break down the complexity of an audacious goal into small manageable chunks that can be more easily accomplished. The new year gives us all a chance to reflect upon the past several months and think about where we would like to go. We are halfway through the school year and by now students are able to measure their progress since the first day of school.

Montville Township Board of Education Elects New President and Vice President BOE Members Michelle Zuckerman and Dr. David Modrak were elected to serve as the 2023 Montville Township BOE Vice President and President.

Board of Education Also Swears in Newly Elected Board Members - At the, January 3, 2023, Montville Township Board of Education Reorganization Meeting, BOE Members Michelle Zuckerman and Dr. David Modrak were elected into leadership roles by the Members of the BOE.  Zuckerman and Modrak will respectively serve as the 2023 Montville Township BOE Vice President and President. Incumbent BOE Member Christine Fano and new BOE Member John Petrozzino were sworn in at the January 3, 2023, Montville Township Board of Education Reorganization Meeting. Incumbent Michael Rappaport, who also won reelection in the November 2022 election, was unable to attend the January 3 meeting. He will be sworn in at his earliest convenience at the Montville Township Public Schools District Offices.

Montville BOE Honors 15 Outstanding Educators Including Teachers and Educational Services Professionals of the Year MTPS Teachers of the Year, Educational Services Professionals of the Year and MTHS Princeton University Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award Recipient.

Teachers of the Year, Educational Services Professionals of the Year and Princeton University Distinguished Secondary School Teacher Award Recipient Honored - The Montville BOE recognized 15 outstanding educators of the year on 1/17/23. Many have taught in the MTPS district for over 20 years. Principals from each of the district’s schools introduced the honorees to the BOE and members of the public. Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman presented each honoree with a certificate. “This is a special time of year,” Gorman said. “It is joyful to recognize our outstanding educators. These dedicated individuals are creative and passionate about education, and we are excited to thank them for their commitment to the students and the district.” WATCH VIDEO OF CEREMONY on Montville Township Public Schools YouTube Channel.

Lazar Middle School Produces Historical Drama for All Ages Lazar Middle School is producing THE STORM IN THE BARN. Performances are scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, December 8 and 9, 2022, in the Lazar gymnasium/auditorium.

Set in the Dust Bowl of America, THE STORM IN THE BARN is a Mystery that Explores How the Smallest Among Us Can Save the World - An historical drama/mystery set in 1937 Kansas, THE STORM IN THE BARN, is the story of 11-year-old Jack Clark who faces many challenges.Adapted by Tony- and Pulitzer-nominated playwright Eric Coble, from the graphic novel by New York Times best-selling author Matt Phelan, THE STORM IN THE BARN is a uniquely American fable that uses haunting music and startling imagery to ask: When everyone says you’re too small to be the hero of any story, where do you find the strength to save your family … and the world? The drama club of Robert R. Lazar Middle School is producing THE STORM IN THE BARN. Performances are scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, December 8 and 9, 2022, in the Lazar gymnasium/auditorium. Tickets are $12. Note: The performance on Friday, December 9 is FREE to 8th graders with their Student ID.

Valley View Winter Concert Featured Entire 5th Grade The annual Valley View Winter Concert was held on January 12, 2023.

The Annual Valley View Elementary School 5th Grade Winter Concert was held on January 12 - The 74 members of Valley View’s 5th grade class performed in the Chorus. In addition, 20 student musicians performed in the 5th Grade Orchestra, 15 performed in the 5th Grade Band, and 18 students performed in the Orff Club presentation. Watch concert now.

Grant Money Secured for Study Abroad Programs at MTHS CIEE is a global non-profit organization that has provides academic study abroad opportunities for high school students.

Supervisor of World Languages and ESL, Tamar Spitzer, has secured a $10,000 grant from CIEE to start a Council for International Education Exchange program at Montville Township High School - All high school students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply. With the grant, the first 10 applicants will receive $1,000 off the cost of the program. Every summer CIEE offers scholarship to students who qualify for both merit and financial need scholarships. CIEE offers four week-long World Language programs (French, Spanish, Italian, Mandarin, German, Arabic and Japanese), where students can receive 4 college credits through Tulane University. Additionally, they offer programs in Science, International Relations, Arts, Business and Leadership (students can receive 12-50 service hours).

Valley View Elementary Opens Little Free Library for Montville Community Little Free Library, Charter #147,091 was officially opened at Valley View Elementary School in Montville Township, New Jersey, on November 18, 2022.


 

A World-Wide Movement, Little Free Libraries Offer Nearly 150,000 Opportunities for Readers to Borrow Books - Fifth grade student Shyam Sriram welcomed the crowd at the Valley View Elementary School ribbon-cutting ceremony for the launch of the school’s Little Free Library. Speech Therapist, Shelby Newkirk, assisted the Panda Pagoda representative with the ceremony. The Little Free Library was donated to the community by the students who run the Panda Pagoda, Valley View's school store.

Cedar Hill Elementary Honors Over 30 Veterans In honor of Veterans Day, the students of Cedar Hill Elementary School in Montville Township, New Jersey, shared a full day of commemoration and gratitude on Friday, November 18, 2022.

Active and Retired Service Men and Women Thanked with Song, Ceremony, Decorations and Luncheon - In honor of Veterans Day, the students of Cedar Hill Elementary School, in Montville Township, New Jersey, shared a full day of commemoration and gratitude on Friday, November 18, 2022. The 329 students welcomed the active duty and retired service men and women to the Cedar Hill community. The students, who range in age from kindergarten to grade 5, spent more than a month preparing the school for the Veterans Day event.

Montville Township High School Provides Thanksgiving Dinner to 40 Families MTHS Key Club provided food to 40 local families for Thanksgiving 2022.

Key Club Organizes Most Successful Drive With Students, Faculty, Schools, Community and Others Supplying Donations to Montville Township Kiwanis Food Pantry - Nearly 2,600 food items were donated to the Montville Township High School Key Club the Montville Township Kiwanis Club Food Pantry. The 200-member MTHS Key Club the community to participate in its most successful food drive ever. Forty local families received two bags filled with food, two ShopRite gift cards, and personalized greeting cards.

A Bright Future - Superintendent's Column, November 2022 The "Superintendent's Column,"  by Dr. Thomas A. Gorman.

A Bright Future - I recently visited a “swearing-in ceremony” of the Woodmont Elementary School 5th grade student safety patrol volunteers by the Morris County Sheriff. Prior to the ceremony, I asked the students what they wanted to be when they grow up. Four young women said they wanted to be scientists, several students expressed interest in working with animals, some of the children told me they would become a doctor, and one young man, with full conviction, shared his desire to interpret satellite images. In this brief moment of interacting with these students, they enthusiastically shot their hands in the air to be picked to share their future endeavors. When called upon, they smiled brightly and proudly shared their dreams. They spoke to me with confidence and joy.

VFW Presents Awards to Lazar and MTHS Essay Contest Winners VFW Presents Awards to Lazar and MTHS Essay Contest Winners

First Place Winners at Both Levels Will Now Compete on the District Level - Lahari Thata, of Lazar, received 1st Place in the Patriot’s Pen competition. This year’s theme was “My Pledge to Our Veterans.” Following the presentation of a certificate and cash prize, Thata was invited to read her winning essay for the Montville Township Board of Education and the community at large. Additionally, Aarav Mulinti, a junior, received the first place award in the Voice of Democracy competition. Mulinti received second place last year in the same completion. Click here for video

5th Annual Turkey Trot Embraces Exercise and Gratitude The William Mason cougar mascot and the William Mason turkey attended the 5th Annual Turkey Trot at William Mason Elementary School. Turkey ran some laps and Cougar waved and smiled.

William Mason Elementary Students Ran Laps and Gave Thanks - The Fifth Annual William Mason Turkey Trot was held on Tuesday, November 22, 2022. The brisk morning event challenged William Mason Elementary School’s 310 students to run two laps before 9:30 a.m. Gratitude and exercise are the themes for this annual William Mason annual event.

Three MTHS Athletes Sign Division 1 Letters of Intent Three MTHS  seniors signed with NCAA Division 1 universities: Ian Kaiser:, Baseball,Binghamton University; Caitlin Olensky, Softball, University of Nebraska and Karl Monaco, Wrestling, Columbia University.

Mustangs’ Coaches, Families, Friends and MTHS Administrators Were On Hand to Celebrate National Signing Day - Congratulations to Ian Kaiser, Binghamton University – Baseball; Caitlin Olensky, University of Nebraska – Softball; and Karl Monaco, Columbia University - Wrestling. Excitement defined the Signing Day event, as friends, family and the MTHS Mustang Mascot joined the celebration. Additionally, MTHS administrators, principal Douglas Sanford and Athletic Director Wayne Guarino congratulated each of the students and their families. Coaches Jason DeVirgilio for baseball, John Immediato for softball and John Krip for wrestling were also there to support their players as the students signed.

Why Not? - Superintendent's Column December 2022 Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Superintendent of Montville Township Public Schools.

Why Not? - The world’s population surpassed eight billion people last month. This milestone is an incredible number and must give us pause to think about the effect of so many people living together on this planet. In the past 100 years, we have made great strides in technology, science, and health care. These advancements have enabled people to live longer and healthier lives. We have explored the depths of the oceans as well as traveled deep into space. Each new discovery aids in our understanding of what it means to be human and what roles we play in this universe. George Bernard Shaw once wrote, "Some people see things as they are and say why? I dream things that never were and say, why not?" Curiosity is one of the highest aspects that leads to discovery. The questions of why or why not may be three of the most important words uttered. And these questions are spoken by curious people like our students.

Valley View Kindergarteners Make Bus Safety Video Presentation to BOE Kindergarteners Justin Epstein, Shaan Mehta, Ditya Nigam and Valley View Elementary School Counselor Keith Spector made a bus safety presentation to the Montville Township Board of Education on Tuesday, December 6, 2022.

Valley View Elementary School kindergarteners made an educational bus safety video, entitled “Valley View Buckle Up,” for the 2022-2023 academic year - Principal Dr. Patricia Kennedy, School Counselor Keith Spector, and three members of the Valley View Kindergarten class, shared the video with the Montville Twp BOE on Tuesday, December 6. “The video that you are going to see we made, to remind all children who ride the bus, that being safe is everybody’s job,” said Ditya Nigam, a kindergarten student in Jessica Becker’s class.

MTHS Seniors Win NJ Youth Leadership Award From New Jersey Chinese Teacher Association MTHS Seniors Yoo Jin Kang and Samantha Ko have won the NJ Youth Leadership Award sponsored by the New Jersey Chinese Teacher Association

MTHS Seniors Yoo Jin Kang and Samantha Ko have won the NJ Youth Leadership Award sponsored by the New Jersey Chinese Teacher Association - Only 20 NJ students received this award. According to the NJCTA website, the award "recognizes student leaders who have actively participated in Asian cultural activities both inside and outside school and have distinguished themselves in these programs."

Board of Ed Reviewed Facility Renovations Plans to replace the windows, and enclose the metal work in watertight resurfacing, at Cedar Hill, William Mason and Woodmont are underway.

Cedar Hill, William Mason and Woodmont Elementary Schools all have the same architectural plan. In all cases the gym windows are very energy inefficient, and the external metal work, that encloses the gym, is beginning to deteriorate. Plans to replace the windows, and enclose the metal work in watertight resurfacing, are underway. These renovation projects are three of the many construction initiatives moving forward throughout the district. New entryways are nearly finalized at Lazar and Valley View. Renovated parking lots were installed at Hilldale and Valley View. Valley View’s aging unit ventilators are being replaced. And the MTHS state-of-the-art track and field is complete.

MTHS Senior Receives United States Congress' highest honor for young Americans Montville Township High School senior Mirella Richard recently received The Gold Congressional Award for Voluntary Service.

MTHS senior Mirella Richard recently received The Gold Congressional Award for Voluntary Service - The medal is the United States Congress' highest honor for young Americans. A senior at MTHS, she completed 400 hours of Voluntary Public Service, 200 hours of Personal Development, 200 hours of Physical Fitness, and 4 nights/5 days of Expedition/Exploration to achieve the Congressional Gold Medal. This is in addition to the volunteer work she completed throughout the pandemic to achieve the Congressional Bronze and Silver. Richard is a member of the MTHS Class of 2023. In the final leg of her journey in pursuit of her Gold Medal, Richard volunteered at Mt. Pleasant Animal Shelter in East Hanover, Homeless Solutions in Morristown, and Arts High School in Newark (as part of NJSO Youth Orchestras).

August Letter to Parents & Guardians From Dr. Thomas A. Gorman Logo for the Montville Township Public Schools

Superintendent  Dr. Thomas A. Gorman shared a letter with Parents and Guardians on August 15, 2022. "The mission of the Montville Township Public Schools is 'to develop well-rounded, invested, and inspired students by engaging them in an experience of collaboration with educators, parents, and community that fosters a culture of innovation, character, and inclusivity in a shared spirit of pride.'  To accomplish this, we will work together to continue establishing the highest quality of learning through a powerful and rigorous learning environment," Dr. Gorman wrote. 

New Teachers Attend 3-Day Orientation at Montville Township Public Schools Twenty-seven new educators joined the staff at Montville Township Public Schools on August 22, 2022. They attended a 3-day orientation at MTHS.

Twenty-seven New Staff Prepare for 2022-2023 Academic Year - “New Teacher Orientation” was held Monday, August 22, through Wednesday, August 24, 2022. Montville Township Public Schools will open to students on Tuesday, September 6, 2022. All faculty and staff will return to the district for the 2022-2023 academic year on Thursday, September 1, 2022.

Crowd Attends MTHS Club Fair MTHS Club Fair

Educate. Inspire. Empower - Over 75% of the MTHS student body attended the school's Club Fair on Wednesday, September 21, 2022. The exciting and popular event was scheduled in the gym during Fall Spirt Week. MTHS sponsors over 40 clubs. Both as advisors, and as participants, faculty, staff and student leaders support each of the clubs.

Woodmont Principal Dominic Esposito Named 2022 New Jersey Exemplary Educator Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman made a surprise announcement over the PA on November 8: Principal Dominic Esposito was named a 2022 New Jersey Exemplary Educator by the NJ Department of Education.

Only 181 Educators Received this New Jersey Department of Education Recognition - Dominic Esposito, who is principal at Woodmont Elementary School, learned of being named a NJ DOE 2022 New Jersey Exemplary Educator during a surprise PA announcement made by Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman during the school’s morning announcements on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. Only 181 educators in the entire state received this honor. Esposito has been principal at Woodmont since 2013.

The First 100 Days Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Superintendent of Montville Township Public Schools.

Superintendent's Column - September 30, 2022 - The First 100 Days - Excitement and pride are at the foundation of our success. With all of us -- BOE Trustees, faculty and staff, students and families, and the community -- working together to build on that foundation, we will help every student reach their fullest potential in a learning environment of the highest quality. 

Respect: A Self-Evident Truth - Superintendent's Column October 2022 Dr. Thomas A. Gorman, Superintendent's Column - October 2022

Respect is fragile and not easily come by. As we too often see in the news, respect is rare - The basic human right of respect was penned by Thomas Jefferson 246 years ago in the Declaration of Independence when he wrote, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”  Understanding that we all are entitled to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness means that we all have the same equality to these rights as our neighbor or classmate. These rights are further elevated by the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights...

September Letter to Parents and Guardians Montville Township Public Schools Shield logo

In his September 1, 2022, letter to parents and guardians, Superintendent  Dr. Thomas A. Gorman shared information regarding the relaxing of Covid-19 protocols, an introduction to Chartwells, the new lunch service provider at Lazar and MTHS, and an update on the facilities improvements that have taken place throughout the district during the summer of 2022.

NBC News Covers 14th Annual "Exercise US" at Valley View Valley View PE teacher Len Saunders was interviewed by NBC news during the 14th Annual EXERCISE US program.

National Exercise Program Launches from Montville Township Public Schools - Len Saunders dedicates his career to making exercise fun. The innovative Physical Education teacher was interviewed by NBC News during Valley View Elementary School’s 14th Annual EXERCISE US program. The NBC interview also coincided with the launch of Saunders' 9th book: "Coach Lenny's School Tips: Top 10 Physical Activity Skills Your Child Should Master Entering Kindergarten."  NBC interviewed Saunders, students: Melaina Naveendra (grade 5), Brady Smith (3), Alexa Semren (5) and Zakariyya Ali (5), as well as Principal Dr. Patricia Kennedy and Superintendent Dr. Thomas A. Gorman.

Woodmont Student and Business Administrator Featured in Solar Energy Video Woodmont Elementary School student Shanvi Mahida, grade 5, is featured in the new solar panel video, produced by Solar Landscape.

Collaborative Solar Project to Save District Nearly $1Million Over 15 Years - Montville Township Public Schools and Solar Landscape launched a collaboration last year to harness solar energy through solar panels placed on 6 of the district’s schools. Business Administrator Katine Slunt and 5th grade student Shanvi Mahida, of Woodmont Elementary School, are featured the new video. The solar project was made possible through a 15-year solar power purchase agreement which enabled the school district to install the panels at no cost and purchase the electricity they generate at guaranteed discounts every month. The district’s utility cost savings are expected to be nearly $1 million over the term of the agreement. Additionally the installation reduced carbon dioxide emissions.

Faculty and Staff Honored for Years of Service Including Lazar Music Teacher Honored for 35 Years of Service Music teacher, Janice Scharf, was presented with a pin of recognition for her 35 Years of Service to the Montville Township Public Schools.

39 Teachers Were Recognized for a Collective 795 Years of Dedication to Education - Music teacher, Janice Scharf, was presented with a pin of recognition for her 35 Years of Service to the Montville Township Public Schools. Scharf was one of 39 teachers recognized for their years of service on Thursday, September 1, 2022. Combined, the 39 dedicated faculty and staff members have logged 795 Years of Service to the Montville Township Public Schools. Years of Service pins were presented to those who have 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 Years of Service.

MTHS Freshman Receives National Poetry Prize American Writers Museum logo

Ali Giordano is one of only six students in the United States, grades 3 through 12, to have been awarded The John Estey Student Writing Competition Award presented by the American Writers Museum - Giordano wrote the poem while an 8th grade student in Suezette Given's ELA class. The poem will be tied to AWM's upcoming exhibit Dark Testament, which opens September 22. Entitled Where I’m From, Giordano's award winning work was inspired by the following quote by James Baldwin: The place in which I’ll fit will not exist until I make it.”

Montville Township Board of Education Adopts Annual Budget for 2022-2023 Stock image of a budget binder

Highlights of the 2022-2023 school budget include: The addition of three elementary teaching positions due to enrollment changes. The addition of one part time Basic Skills Teacher and one part time ESL Teacher. Additional related and extraordinary services based on student needs. Increased costs in the area of transportation due to rising fuel prices and bus driver shortages. Renovation projects including: Upgrading the entrance security at Lazar Middle School, repairs to external wall panels at Cedar Hill, William Mason and Woodmont Schools, Replacement of the gym windows at Woodmont School, Improvements to the exterior entrance and signage at Valley View School, Univentilator replacement at Valley View School, paving at Hilldale, William Mason and Valley View Schools. The budget reflects the addition of several teaching positions. The full presentation is available on the district website at 2022-2023 Public Hearing on the Budget.

Dr. Thomas A. Gorman Appointed Superintendent of Schools by Montville Township Board of Education Dr. Thomas A. Gorman was appointed Superintendent of the Montville Township Public Schools on Tuesday, March 15, 2022.

An Innovative Educator, Dr. Gorman Will Begin His Position as Superintendent of Montville Township Public Schools on July 1, 2022 - Dr. Thomas A. Gorman was appointed Superintendent of the Montville Township Public Schools on Tuesday, March 15, 2022. The resolution of Dr. Gorman’s appointment was unanimously passed by the Montville Township Board of Education. Dr. Gorman’s appointment is effective as of July 1, 2022, following the retirement of Superintendent Dr. René T. Rovtar on June 30. READ MORE: www.montville.net/news/superintendent-dr-thomas-a-gorman