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The Official Newsletter of the Park Ridge School District
May/June 2026
“Owls Together: Community, Friendship, and Kindness”
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The Owl Mission
The Park Ridge School District is committed to educating and empowering all students to think critically and creatively to express their full potential. We cultivate a community of lifelong learners and nurture all students to be kind, ethical, and responsible citizens, as well as independent, productive members of an increasingly complex and interconnected world. As a district, we embrace individuality and value cultural diversity, equity, and mutual respect.
The Owl Vision
We are dedicated to creating a culture and climate of collaboration and acceptance, where all members of the district are encouraged to challenge themselves and learn from their experiences. We recognize the importance of interconnection and encourage development of multiple intelligences and divergent thinkers. We strive to support our students as they grow academically, socially, physically, and emotionally, and recognize that this process is enhanced through collaboration within the larger community. The Park Ridge School District strives to advocate for the individual needs and goals of every member of the school community, by fostering an environment where growth and well-being are paramount.
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Upcoming Dates
- June 2 - PRHS Senior Awards (7 PM - HS Little Theater)
- June 3 - BOE Special Meeting - BOE Vacancy Interviews (6 PM - HS Little Theater)
- June 15 - BOE Meeting (7 PM - HS Little Theater)
- June 24 - EB Grade 6 Promotion (10 AM)
- June 24 - WR Grade 6 Promotion (11:30 AM)
- June 25 - PRHS Graduation (6 PM) / Last Day for Students & Staff
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Important Reminders
BOE Test Score Presentation
At the BOE meeting on October 14th, Dr. Bernardo presented our 2025 NJSLA/DLM Spring administration results to the public. The complete presentation can be found at this link Click Here
2025-26 K-6 Student - Parent Handbook
Please be sure to review the information contained in the handbook Click Here
2025-26 Statewide Assessment Schedule
The assessment schedule for the current school year can be found at this link ... Click Here
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From the Superintendent of Schools ...
Dear School Community Member:
Hello to all! We are officially in the home stretch of the school year. The calendar for the end of May and June is filled with events that showcase all the hard work completed by our students and staff.
On May 4th, the BOE held its annual Budget Hearing and passed a budget that included an 8.14% tax levy increase. A majority of this increase can be contributed to the rising cost of health insurance. As stated at the hearing, health insurance alone increased by over 30% this year, which was more than a $2.4 million increase over last year’s budget. These costs are contractual obligations and largely beyond the district’s control. It is important to note that the 2026-27 school budget maintains all current programs, services and staffing levels.
In early May we celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week in all of our schools. I am sure you will agree that we have an incredible faculty and staff working with your children. They are a highly dedicated group who create a wonderful learning environment for the students entrusted to their care. Please join me in thanking them!
In closing, I want to thank you for helping to make the PRSD a great place to learn and grow. I have enjoyed serving this school community for the last 16 years. I wish you nothing but the best in future.
Owls Together,
Robert M. Gamper, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
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PRPD Junior Police Academy
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Junior Police Academy, running from June 29th through July 3rd! This free program is open to all current 5th, 6th, and 7th-grade students and is designed to instill discipline while providing a fun, hands-on experience focused on teamwork and leadership, including physical training each morning. Applications are now live, so please visit the PR Police Website for details on how to apply. Throughout the week, participants will also enjoy demonstrations that have been featured in past academies, including K9 units, SWAT, the State Police helicopter, Special Investigations, Bomb Squad, the Fire Department, and Tri-Boro Ambulance, along with a fun surprise field trip! Spots are limited, so don’t miss out on this great opportunity! If you have any questions, please email Sgt. Gerald Powers gpowers@parkridgepolice.com.
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Summer Music Program
It’s Never Too Late to Play: Summer Music for Grades 3-12! 🎷🥁
To our students entering grades 3–12: Whether you are a seasoned musician or have always wanted to learn an instrument but didn't know where to start, the 40th Annual Summer Instrumental Music Program is for you!
The summer offers a relaxed, high-growth environment where you can focus on your personal goals without the pressure of the school year.
Why Join Us This Summer?
- For the Experienced Player: Keep your skills sharp, prepare for leadership roles, or master that challenging piece you’ve been working on.
- For the Absolute Beginner: Have you always wanted to play the saxophone, drums, or trumpet? The summer is the best time for older students to start a new instrument. With 1-on-1 lessons, you can gain the skills needed to join our performing ensembles by the fall!
- For the "Switchers": Thinking about switching from flute to tuba? Or clarinet to saxophone? Use the summer to make the transition with expert guidance.
Program Details:
- Flexible Options: 30 or 60-minute lessons available in 2, 3, or 4-week sessions to fit your summer schedule.
- When: June 29 – July 31, 2026, at Park Ridge High School.
- Convenience: Lessons are scheduled Monday–Friday between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Don’t miss out on the music!
Questions? Contact Mr. Diomede at johndiomede@parkridge.k12.nj.us or 201-573-6000 ext. 5931. We can’t wait to help you start (or continue) your musical journey!
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Superintendent Search
The Park Ridge Board of Education has contracted with the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA) to conduct their superintendent search. Information regarding the search can be found under District Highlights on the PRSD website. Please click on the link below to view the search calendar:
Search Calendar
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Kindergarten Hoot Camp
This summer Park Ridge will once again be offering Hoot Camp from July 6th to July 31st. This year it is being held at West Ridge School. Hoot Camp is an exciting introduction to elementary school and is available to all incoming kindergartners in Park Ridge. All Hoot Camp instructors are certified teachers. Hoot Camp consists of a fun-filled four-week curriculum full of activities and lessons that will help prepare your child for kindergarten. Each day, children will participate in activities that will help develop their confidence in reading readiness and math skills, social/emotional growth, and fine & gross motor skills. Hoot Camp provides a balance of learning and having fun, all while meeting new friends!
Please note the cost of the program will be based on enrollment.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, you can contact Lisa Conforti at lisaconforti@parkridge.k12.nj.us.
You can sign you child up here: Hoot Camp Link
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School Board Vacancy
The Park Ridge Board of Education (The Board) is seeking a qualified candidate to join the Board due to a recently created vacancy. The position available will run until the Board re-organizes in January 2027. The position will be placed on the ballot at the annual election in November 2026 for a one-year term.
Qualifications:
To become a member of the Board of Education you must:
- Be able to read and write
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Hold a U.S. citizenship and be a resident for at least one year in the school district
- Have no interest in any contract with, or claim against the Board
- Not hold office as mayor or be a member of any elective governing body
- Not be disqualified from membership for the conviction of certain crimes. Within 30 days of election or appointment to the Board, a member must undergo a criminal background investigation through the State Department of Education
To Apply:
Interested residents who meet the above qualifications should submit a letter of interest expressing the reasons they are interested in becoming a member of the Board. Letters can be sent via email or mailed to the Board Office as follows:
Robert Wright
Business Administrator/Board Secretary
Park Ridge Board of Education
85 Pascack Road
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Email: RobertWright@parkridge.k12.nj.us
The deadline for submission is Wednesday May 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Interviews will be conducted at a Special Meeting of the Board on Wednesday, June 03, 2026. Selected candidates will be contacted for interview times.
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East Brook & West Ridge - 2026-27 Kindergarten
Park Ridge children who will be 5 years old by October 1, 2026, will be eligible for full day Kindergarten Registration for the 2026-2027 school year.
Children living west of Pascack Road will attend West Ridge Elementary School. Children living on or east of Pascack Road will attend East Brook School. Please attend the orientation where your child will be registered.
Please contact the main office at East Brook or West Ridge to make an appointment to register your child.
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2026-27 Park Ridge School Budget
On May 4th, the Park Ridge BOE held its annual Budget Hearing and approved their budget for the 2026-27 school year. Please feel free to review the documents below to gain an understanding of what is included in this year's PRSD budget.
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PRHS Marching Band - Welcome Day!
Congratulations to our 6th grade students on their upcoming promotion! As they prepare to begin an exciting new chapter at Park Ridge Jr./Sr. High School, we wanted to share a wonderful opportunity for students interested in music, school spirit, and being part of an outstanding tradition.
The Park Ridge Marching Band, the reigning State Champions, is inviting incoming students to learn more about the program at their Welcome Day on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the High School Band Room. Families will have the opportunity to meet the students, hear the music, and connect with the Marching Band Boosters to learn more about the program and upcoming season.
If your child is interested in participating, please [Click Here] to read the full info and [Click Here] to register by Friday, May 29, 2026. Questions? Please don't hesitate to reach out to Director of Bands, John Diomede, at 201-573-6000 ext. 5931 or via email. We look forward to hearing from you!
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PRHS Little Theater Update
The BOE is moving forward with a plan to renovate the HS theater proscenium and backstage area. The project includes new drapery, lights and audio system. The project is currently out to bid, with the hope that construction will begin in July. Please see the design schematics below:
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Laptop Refresh 2025
The Park Ridge School District has invested in the most recent version of MacBook Air laptops for our 1:1 program.
Please remember that when you come to pick up your laptop, every student must have a copy of the Laptop Agreement Form signed by a parent/guardian.
Laptop Agreement Form
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PRHS Online Cashless Payment Options for Lunch
Attention PRHS Parents/Guardians:
Parents now have the option to prepay for cafeteria meals online, via credit card or ACH Electronic Checking, using Pay Schools Central. For more information click on the link below:
Cashless Payment
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PRSD School Calendar
On November 18, 2024, the BOE approved the 2025-26 school calendar. The calendar is available at the link below:
REVISED 2025-26 School Calendar
On November 17, 2025, the BOE approved the 2026-27 school calendar. Please be advised that school will open for students before Labor Day. The calendar is available at the link below:
2026-27 School Calendar
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