Somerville Public Schools

❇️ March is National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month!🌟 The Ville supports the resilience and diversity of individuals with CP and is committed to inclusivity and support for every student. 🙏🏻 #CerebralPalsyAwarenessMonth #allin4theville

💫 Excited for our very own Mr. Nick Petronko & Mr. Freddie Shaker to 🪨 it at NJAMLE's annual conference! Their STEM-inspired workshop will discuss the relevance of crosscutting concepts in math and science instruction! Go get em guys and thanks for representing The Ville! 👏🏻 . . #NJAMLE2024 #allin4theville #somervilleschoolsnj

🌟 March is Women’s History Month, and The Ville couldn't be more proud to honor and celebrate the vital role of women in American history. Outside our SHS's media center is a doorway to inspire our students with stories of courage, determination, and innovation. A moment of recognition for our own Mrs. Aida Wahba, who is a 2024 NJEA Celebration of Women honoree 👏🏻 She is an incredible advocate for Spanish-speaking parents and students, whom travels overseas to facilitate human trafficking education to educators and students. We couldn't be more proud of her and all of the women who empower Somerville - to be the forward-looking district it is today. We aim to continue to empower our learners to make history by learning from it. 💫 #WomensHistoryMonth #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools #Education

🎉 We've had a spectacular week celebrating Read Aloud Week at VDV! 📚✨ Teachers and students outdid themselves, transforming our halls into a vibrant showcase of everything that makes Somerville shine. Each hallway was a discovery, reflecting our community's spirit and pride. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Thursday night was a hit with our Family Literacy Night, where families immersed themselves in a world of creativity and learning. There was something for everyone, from art to music, games to mindfulness. And let's remember the excitement buzzing around the PTO book fair! 📖 Friday brought a wave of support from our community heroes and leaders. It was heartwarming to see board members, the mayor and former mayor, our brave firefighters, the dedicated Somerville police department, the county sheriff, the prosecutor's office, and so many more come together to share stories with our classes. 💙 A huge thank you to everyone who made this week so memorable. Your participation and enthusiasm have truly made a difference in fostering a love for reading and community in the hearts of our students. Here's to many more moments like this! 🌟 @somervillepdnj @somersetctyprosecutorsoffice @sheriffrusso @somervillefd57 . . #allin4theville #somervillenj #somervilleschoolsnj

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature our staff members at The Ville who contribute to students' academic success and help shape their path here at Somerville! This week, it's Ms. Astrella from Somerville High School! Ms. Astrella has been teaching at Somerville High School in the history department for the past six years. During these six years, she has taught many different classes, all of which she brings great excitement to. She has taught World Studies, USI, USII, Freshman Seminar, and World Studies Topics And Skills. Ms. Astrella is also very involved in the Somerville community. She has been a coach for softball, field hockey, and soccer on the JV and freshman levels. In addition, this will be her third year as the head varsity softball coach which she enjoys thoroughly, and can’t wait to get back on the field with the team for the season. Also, you can see Ms. Astrella at many athletic events as she is the head ticket seller for football, basketball, and wrestling. Outside of the athletic world, Ms. Astrella is the advisor of the Academic League, which placed second in the county last year. In addition, she has been involved with the Faculty Council, Equity Team, Character Education Committee, and the Behavioral Threat Assessment Team over her six years. Ms. Astrella is working diligently to earn her master’s degree! She has received the Governor’s Teacher Of The Year award this year and owes her success to her great colleagues in her department, who made her first six years of teaching a team-like and fun journey. Ms. Astrella loves coming to work every day to support her students and be a part of the Ville community! Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #somervillenj #somervilleschoolsnj #somervillestafffeature

💫We were ALL IN for #SELDay today. Let's do it again tomorrow! 👏🏻 .. #allin4theville #SELDay2024 #somervillenj

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature our staff members at The Ville who contribute to students' academic success and help shape their path here at Somerville! This week is Somerville Middle School's Physical Education & Health teacher, Mr. Thomas George! Meet Tom George, a dedicated educator with 14 years of experience at SMS! Warmly known as Senor Jorge by his students, he wears multiple hats as a health and physical education teacher. Tom coached the middle school basketball and baseball teams. Beyond the classroom, Tom has been actively involved in various fundraisers and events for the school, such as Field Day, Relay for Life, ALS Volleyball Tournament, and Hoops for Heart. Tom goes above and beyond by mentoring fellow staff members and contributing to the district's Professional Development. This year, he introduced "Wellness Tips," a collection of 60 essential insights for his students, which he reviews daily to promote a healthy lifestyle. One of Tom's guiding mottos is, "We can't change the past, we can only change the future." Join us in celebrating Tom's passion for education and well-being! Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #somervillenjschools #SomervilleStaffFeature

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature one of our staff members at The Ville that contributes to students' academic success and helps shape their path here at Somerville! This week is Van Derveer School's Mrs. Joelle Kessler! Joelle Kessler has been teaching at Van Derveer School for 11 years. She currently teaches 5th-grade ELA classes. She is a co-chair of the SunFISH and Retirement committees. She also volunteers for the school's Strawberry Festival, Angel Tree, and Literacy Committees. She is a part of the Ville Teachers Polar Plunge Team. Mrs. Kessler is a mentor and buddy for new teachers as well. Mrs. Kessler can be seen cheering on past and present students at various sporting events all year. As a resident of Somerville, she loves being able to see the students throughout the town outside of school! Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools #Somervillestrong #Somervillestafffeature

Dear Somerville School District Families and Staff, We had three days built into this year’s calendar for emergency closings. However, we have had to close for five days due to bad weather. The State requires 180 days of student attendance; therefore, Friday, April 5th and Friday, May 24th will no longer be vacation days. Instead, our schools will be open on each date for a half day. Sincerely, Dr. Richard J. Brockel Interim Superintendent of Schools

🌟 Random Acts of Kindness Week at The Ville was a success! From superheroes to surprise treats to heartfelt notes, all drove home the point that sometimes, it’s the little things that matter ❤️ Let’s carry this spirit forward and continue spreading kindness daily! 💖 . . #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools #KindnessStartsWithUs

How about some “Big History” today, Somerville? For Presidents Day today, here are some fun, interesting facts about some of our past U.S. presidents! 🦅 Enjoy the day off! . . #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools #PresidentsDay

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature our staff members at The Ville who contribute to students' academic success and help shape their path here at Somerville! This week is Somerville High School's Mrs. Stafford! Mrs. Stafford has been teaching art at Somerville High School for five years, starting during the year of the pandemic. She primarily teaches exploring art but has also taught the 3-D experience, showcasing her versatility as an art educator. Mrs. Stafford loves her job and her students, which is apparent as she has created a warm and welcoming art room. As one of three art teachers at the high school, Mrs. Stafford collaborates closely with her colleagues and plays a significant role in shaping the art department's curriculum and activities. In response to students’ interest, Mrs. Stafford initiated the volleyball club at the school. She facilitated a space for this extracurricular sports activity, with approximately 40 students at 7 am every Wednesday morning. In addition to daily responsibilities, she serves as a co-chair of the Sunshine Committee, which boosts morale and fosters a positive school culture, further enhancing the school's environment beyond the classroom. In November, the students also recognized Mrs. Stafford as Staff Member of the Month, highlighting her dedication and contributions to the school community. She is a member of the AENJ (Art Educators of New Jersey), which shows her involvement in a professional network related to her field. She also organizes and participates in art shows at the school and various venues in Somerset County, showcasing student’s work and promoting art education. Mrs. Stafford is a mother of three sons and enjoys being creative in all facets of her life, demonstrating her passion for creativity both inside and outside the classroom. Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #somervillenj #somervilleschoolsnj #somervillestafffeature

Happy Valentine’s Day, Somerville! 💖🎶 We’re celebrating in multiple ways! From our quartets to “Blind Date with a Book” 📚💞Romance novel recommendations📖 to chocolate-covered strawberries ❤️The Ville knows how to spread the love! #ValentinesDay #Allin4theville

Please be advised that all Somerville and Branchburg Public Schools will be closed today, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. All after-school activities and events are canceled. Tonight's Board of Education meeting has also been canceled. Somerville Public Schools will be closed as planned on Friday, February 16th. An upcoming email will provide details regarding the make-up date for the snow day. Thank you.

Please be advised that all Somerville and Branchburg Public Schools will have a delayed opening Tomorrow, Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Be on the lookout for updates in the morning, should weather conditions require it. Please follow your school's schedule.

✨REMINDER✨ Somerville Public Schools will be closed on Friday, February 16th. Somerville Schools will also be closed on Monday, February 19th, for Presidents Day and on February 20th, for Staff Development Day. . . #allin4theville #somervillenjschools

🎉✨ Celebrating African American Heritage Month at Somerville Public Schools ✨🎉 This February, we’re honored to recognize and celebrate African American Heritage Month across all Somerville Public Schools! 🏫 From Van Derveer (VDV) to Somerville Middle School (SMS) and the High School (SHS), our buildings are alive with the spirit of celebration and recognition of the incredible contributions of African Americans. 🌟 📚 Our dedicated media center specialists have meticulously selected age-appropriate resources and materials to highlight African Americans' significant impact in shaping our nation and the entire world. 🌍 🖼️ At VDV, Mrs. White has put together an inspiring display featuring key African American figures from history to the present day. An absolute must-see! 🎤 Over at SMS, our daily announcements spotlight African American historical figures, outstanding athletes, and celebrated celebrities. Each day brings a new story to learn and share! 🤝 SHS’s Black Student Union, under Miss Courtney Eldridge's passionate leadership, fosters a welcoming community for all students, regardless of race or heritage. It is an excellent opportunity for everyone to come together and learn! This month is about more than just celebration; it’s an opportunity for all of us to deepen our understanding and appreciation of African American heritage. 🤲 We’re committed to nurturing an environment of diversity and inclusion, encouraging every student to embrace and learn from the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our community. 🌈 Let’s come together to honor, learn, and grow. Here’s to a month filled with reflection, education, and appreciation! 🙌 #AfricanAmericanHeritageMonth #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature our staff members at The Ville who contribute to students' academic success and help shape their path here at Somerville! This week is Somerville Middle School's Main Office secretaries, Mrs. Teeling & Mrs. Denson! Patty Teeling has been a part of the Somerville School District for the past ten years. She started at Somerville High School in the Nurse’s/Attendance office and was there for two years. Patty is now the Secretary to the Principal, Scott Hade, at Somerville Middle School. “I really enjoy working at Somerville Middle School. The staff has been very warm and welcoming! The students are a lot of fun!” Jen Denson has worked at the Somerville Middle School for 5 years part-time in the Main Office. She is the Secretary to Joe Tauriello, Vice Principal. Jen Denson grew up in Somerville and went through the Somerville School District. “Working where I went to Middle School is pretty cool!” The commonality between Patty and Jen in their past careers as caterers and marrying their high school sweethearts adds a unique connection between them, fostering a shared understanding and camaraderie. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of the Somerville School District community. Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #somervillenj #somervilleschoolsnj #somervillestafffeature

🌟 Safer Internet Day Recap! 🌐 The Ville came together to celebrate the power of positive online spaces. Tips on digital wellness, cyberbullying prevention, and online safety were shared and discussed. Our students reflected on their learning about having an online presence. A huge thank you to all for making it a success! Let’s keep the conversation going and ensure a safer internet for all of our Somerville students💻❤️ . . #SaferInternetDay #allin4theville #SomervilleNJSchools

💡Staff Feature of the Week! 💡Each week, we'll feature one of our staff members at The Ville that contributes to students' academic success and helps shape their path here at Somerville! This week is Van Derveer School's Mr. Steinmetz! Mr. Andrew Steinmetz has been at Somerville for five years and is part of the Technology department at The Ville! While Mr. Andrew supports technology needs throughout the district, his primary focus is at Van Derveer School! Mr. Andrew does it all at Van Derveer, from helping teachers and staff with technology issues to repairing student Chromebooks, setting up resources for assemblies, maintaining printers, and always being there for a question or support! He helps ensure that everyone is supported and is a valuable asset to Van Derveer and the entire Somerville school community! Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! Thank you for all that you do for The Ville! . . #allin4theville #somervillenj #StaffFeatureSomerville