Superintendent Update

Our combined May/June edition of the Superintendent’s Spotlight features many exciting end-of-year events at the Developmental Learning Centers!

The MUJC is excited to announce that DLC - Warren's new outdoor learning space is complete and ready to use! The MUJC was able to construct this unique space as a result of the generous Climate Change Education Grant awarded to the MUJC from the New Jersey Department of Education. This innovative area features “Playground Grass Ultra Synthetic Turf” with antimicrobial protection and “Premium Coated Sand Infill,” which helps keep the surface up to 25% cooler for added comfort. A 25 foot x 25 foot shade structure provides coverage, allowing students to enjoy the space comfortably throughout much of the year. Stay tuned to seeing pictures of our students learning in their new outdoor classroom!

Staff Appreciation Week, May 5-9

Staff Appreciation Week is a time to recognize the incredible and lifelong impact MUJC staff have on our students. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication to our students and their families! You are amazing!

May is Mental Health Month

In honor of Mental Health Month in May, the DLC - New Providence and DLC - Warren school social workers have planned several special events for students. Students will learn about social awareness, self-awareness, relationship skills, positive self image, and more throughout the month during their SEL (social-emotional learning) classes. Hooray to our fabulous school social workers!

Staff Appreciation Day, May 7

DLC - New Providence parents are invited to share their favorite food items with staff as part of Staff Appreciation Week on Wednesday, May 7. If you choose to participate, please send the food items in disposable containers on the bus with your child on Wednesday, May 7. Food will be set up for staff during their lunch periods as part of Staff Appreciation Week. This is always a special treat for our staff!

Special Persons’ Day, Friday, May 9

Each student may invite up to two guests to attend this fun filled event, which will be held in the cafeteria on Friday, May 9. There will be light refreshments, a photo booth and dancing for all to enjoy! A flyer will be sent to parents with more details and the schedule for each classroom. Everyone is looking forward to this special event!

Moving Up Ceremony, Monday, June 9

On Monday, June 9,  DLC – New Providence students who will be aging out of DLC - New Providence at the end of this school year will participate in a Moving Up Ceremony in the DLC - New Providence gymnasium. Parents and families of students who are moving to DLC - Warren will receive invitations soon. This is sure to be a very special event!

DLC – Warren

DLC - Warren Prom - May 22

A “Magical Day” is on its way on Thursday, May 22!  DLC-Warren’s annual Prom will be starting at 1:00 pm in the DLC-Warren Gymnasium.  Prom Committee members have been hard at work making sure that all students ages 18-21 and our 2025 graduates have a wonderful, memorable experience.  Parents of graduates are invited to join us as well!  Be sure to follow our social media for some incredible pictures of this special event!

Fabulous Features at the DLCs

Climate Conversation by Kim Spurlock, Supervisor, DLC - New Providence

This year's climate action initiative focused on supporting the growth of the American Chestnut tree within the local community. In collaboration with the Somerset County Environmental Center, students will engage in planting American Chestnut tree seedlings when they visit the center in May. Throughout the year, students have gained valuable knowledge about the American Chestnut tree, tree identification, and the impacts of climate change. Their experiences also included learning the maple sugaring process and exploring diverse environments during trail walks at the environmental center where they enjoyed interacting with the naturalist, Christa Wood.

Tech Tips by Evan Abramson, Director of Technology and Innovation

As we wrap up the school year, I invite you to reflect on your child's digital experiences. Discuss what went well and what challenges arose. This is a great opportunity to set goals for the upcoming year regarding digital citizenship and technology use.

You might create a simple reflection worksheet together, asking questions like, “what did you enjoy most about using technology this year?” and “what would you like to learn more about?” This not only encourages self-reflection but also helps you support your child’s learning journey.

Extended School Year Program 

As a reminder, the dates for our six-week 2025 Extended School Year (“ESY”) program are Wednesday, June 25 through Wednesday, August 6 from 8:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.  The Developmental Learning Centers will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025 in observance of Independence Day. Parents will receive their child's classroom assignments on or about June 14. Please click here for the ESY 2025 school calendar and click here for the 2025 - 2026 school year calendar.

Mark your Calendar

Thursday, May 22, 2025 DLC-Warren Prom

Monday, May 26, 2025 MUJC closed for Memorial Day

Monday, June 9, 2025 DLC-New Providence Moving Up Ceremony

Tuesday, June 10, 2025 DLC-Warren Graduation

Friday, June 13, 2025 Last Day of School, dismissal for students 12:45 p.m.

Thank you!

My warmest thanks to our wonderful DLC families and our entire MUJC staff. Thank you for your unwavering support, understanding, and positive messages. Most of all, thank you for giving us the privilege of working with your children. Best regards for a wonderful summer and the Superintendent’s Spotlight will greet you in September!

Dr. Janet L. Fike

Superintendent

Morris-Union Jointure Commission

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