Somerville Public Schools
June 2026 News
From the Superintendent JR Lubisco
Dear Somerville Family,
🌸Spring Reflection & Continued Momentum
As another academic year concludes, I want to extend my heartfelt best wishes to our graduating seniors. Having spent many transformative years in Somerville, your growth is a testament to your hard work, and you should be immensely proud of your achievements. We are honored by your accomplishments and excited for the bright future that awaits you. Remember that you will forever remain a cherished part of the Somerville community, and we eagerly anticipate your future successes.
This season also offers a perfect moment to reflect on the steady progress within our district. I am deeply appreciative of our staff's unwavering commitment, the vital support from our families, and the persistent drive shown by our students as we pursue our collective objectives.
Our daily mission remains centered on academic excellence, robust Tier 1 instruction, and the cultivation of a welcoming school environment. These core values continue to steer our efforts. I wish everyone a restful and rejuvenating break spent with loved ones, and I look forward to us finishing this school year on a high note together.
📊 School Performance Reports Available
The New Jersey Department of Education has released the 2024-25 School Performance Reports. These reports provide families with information about student achievement, school climate, staffing, programs, and other key indicators of school performance.
This year's reports feature a redesigned, interactive dashboard format that makes it easier to explore and compare data.
We encourage families to review the reports and use them as a resource to learn more about our schools and district.
We are excited to share several facility upgrades scheduled for this summer, with many projects slated for completion by the opening of the new school year:
Van Derveer Elementary School (VDV): Renovations to the Multipurpose Room and vestibule, the installation of a new synthetic turf field, and the addition of a storage shed.
Somerville Middle School (SMS): Updates to the main office along with the construction of a security vestibule and an ADA-compliant lift and stair addition.
Somerville High School (SHS): Significant alterations and improvements to both the auditorium and science laboratories.
🏅 Stay Updated
Check out our website for the latest on school events and programs. You can also find our sports schedules and follow us on social media for real-time updates:
Facebook, X, YouTube, and Instagram
Looking forward to more great weeks ahead!
Warm regards,
Superintendent
Click here to view the Governor's Educator of the Year 2026 Video!
Summer Reading & Other Summer Assignments
Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary
Thank you to Mr. Frain and all the students and staff who supported changing the name of the Somerset County Courthouse Green to Washington Green. On July 18, at the History on the Green Celebration, the Somerset County Commissioners, in conjunction with the Somerset County Judicial Branch, will pass a Resolution proclaiming the lawn in front of the Courthouse, Washington Green!
If you can make it, please come out on the 18th to join in the festivities in celebration of your efforts in helping Somerset County Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary.
AI & Ethics
The first year of offering AI & Ethics at Somerville High School has been a tremendous success, with funds provided through the Expanding Access to Computer Science High School Courses Grant. The grant allowed the district to develop and launch a new AI-focused course that introduces students to concepts such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, ethics, bias, privacy, and the societal impact of emerging technologies, while engaging them in creative, hands-on learning experiences. Students explored how AI works, examined real-world applications, and discussed the responsibilities that come with developing and using these powerful tools. We look forward to continuing and expanding the course, providing even more students with opportunities to learn about AI, ethical decision-making, technology careers, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in our world.
Somerset Teen County Arts Festival
On May 18, Mrs. Conklin, Mr. Ferguson, Ms. Sullivan, and selected Visual and Performing Arts students attended the 2026 Somerset County Teen Arts Festival. Students participated in workshops, showcased their artistic talents, and received valuable feedback from professional artists and adjudicators, who commended their skill, creativity, and outstanding performances.
The following students and groups were nominated for the New Jersey State Teen Arts Festival (held June 1) and/or selected for the County Cultural & Heritage Gallery Summer Art Show:
Visual Arts
State Festival & County Gallery
Ellie Beaugris – Family Bonding Time (2D)
Paige Dickson – Glowing Iris (2D)
State Festival & State Touring Exhibition
Annalena Bohach – I Want to Be a Part of It… (2D)
County Gallery
Brielle Toth – Splashin' Around (2D)
Instrumental Music
State Festival Nominee
Ville Big Band – All of Me (Large Group Category)
History Happened Here
On May 28, Somerville High School students Carly Becker, Peyton Buchanan, and Caitlyn DelSordo represented our community at the History Happened Here Expo at Rutgers University's Livingston Student Center. Accompanied by Social Studies teacher Mrs. Retmales, they showcased research connecting local history to the broader American story as part of the RevolutionNJ initiative commemorating America's 250th anniversary.
Their projects demonstrated thoughtful research, creativity, and strong storytelling, highlighting how history comes alive within our own community. We congratulate Carly, Peyton, and Caitlyn on this outstanding achievement and thank Mrs. Retmales for her dedication and support.
Seal of Biliteracy
Somerville Public Schools is proud to announce that 31 graduating seniors have successfully earned the Seal of Biliteracy. This distinction, awarded by the district and the New Jersey Department of Education, recognizes students who have demonstrated proficiency in at least one language in addition to English by the time of their high school graduation. The Seal of Biliteracy is conferred upon graduation and indicated on each student's high school transcript to certify their linguistic skills for future employers and universities. Congratulations to our graduates on this significant achievement!
Family Tech Corner
Summer Technology Resources for Families
Students in grades K-11 will keep their district-issued Chromebooks over the summer, allowing continued access to learning resources, creativity tools, and educational opportunities. If your family needs assistance with a device, account, or district technology resource, support is available throughout the summer at:
https://www.somervilleschools.org/page/technical-support-services
As students continue using their devices at home, families can take advantage of several helpful resources. ClassLink provides easy access to many of the digital tools students use during the school year, while Securly Home allows families to monitor activity and manage device use on district-issued Chromebooks.
Looking for guidance beyond school technology? Common Sense Media offers reviews and age recommendations for books, movies, apps, games, and websites, helping families make informed decisions about digital content. ConnectSafely provides practical guides on online safety, social media, gaming, and popular apps used by children and teens.
Finally, remember to keep Chromebooks in a safe indoor location when not in use. Devices should not be left in vehicles or outdoors, where heat, moisture, and other conditions can cause damage.
Helpful Resources:
Technology Support Services: https://www.somervilleschools.org/page/technical-support-services
Securly Home: https://www.securly.com/home-parent
Common Sense Media: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/
ConnectSafely: https://connectsafely.org/parentguides/
Board of Education Meetings
- July 7, 2026 at 4:00 PM
- August 25, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- September 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- October 13, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- November 10, 2026 at 6:00 PM
- December 8, 2026 at 6:00 PM at SHS
- January 5, 2027 at 6:00 PM
All Board of Education meetings are livestreamed
Visit the Athletic Hall of Fame Website to make a nomination, attend an event, and check out the inductees!
