New Staff Spotlight
The River Edge School district welcomes new staff members in the 2019-2020 school year.
Interview with Mr. Eric James
Assistant Principal of Cherry Hill School/NBC
Assistant Principal of Cherry Hill School/NBC
Q. Can you tell us a little bit about your background?
A. I taught Physical Education in grades Pre-K through third grade in a Bergen County school district for several years. I went on to teach Algebra and History in middle and high school for several years in Hudson County. Afterwards I took an administrative position in the Essex County Public School district for eight years before coming to River Edge as the new Assistant Principal at Cherry Hill School.
Q. What made you choose education as a career?
A. I was very fortunate to have had wonderful teachers and college professors who made a significant impact in my life. My college professors at Felician University and Saint Peter's University inspired me to pursue a career in education. They told me I had a “gift” of encouraging children to do well and the “heart” of a saint with the patience I had working with children. I would truly like to thank my mother and my great aunt as well, who taught me the value of being an educated individual and the value of an education. I help run a summer basketball league in a neighboring town as coaching/teaching is a passion of mine, and I enjoy motivating children to be the best version of themselves.
Q. What appealed to you about the River Edge School district?
A. I heard many great things about the River Edge schools as I am from a neighboring town. The parents are very involved, and you immediately get the sense that this is a very tight knit community. I attended a PTO event the other day, and I was pleasantly surprised with how many parents were in attendance. The community is very diverse, and I was impressed with the programs that are offered. I am also looking forward to the opportunity to grow with the district.
Q. Tell us something interesting about yourself?
A. I have traveled around North America playing college and professional basketball. I had the opportunity to visit 45 states including Puerto Rico, and internationally I had visited Bermuda, the Dominican Republic, Canada, and Jamaica playing a sport that I love. I earned my Commercial Art Certificate from the Bergen County Academy High School, and I enjoy cooking. My favorite dishes to prepare are seafood, sautéed lamb chops, and poultry dishes.
A. I taught Physical Education in grades Pre-K through third grade in a Bergen County school district for several years. I went on to teach Algebra and History in middle and high school for several years in Hudson County. Afterwards I took an administrative position in the Essex County Public School district for eight years before coming to River Edge as the new Assistant Principal at Cherry Hill School.
Q. What made you choose education as a career?
A. I was very fortunate to have had wonderful teachers and college professors who made a significant impact in my life. My college professors at Felician University and Saint Peter's University inspired me to pursue a career in education. They told me I had a “gift” of encouraging children to do well and the “heart” of a saint with the patience I had working with children. I would truly like to thank my mother and my great aunt as well, who taught me the value of being an educated individual and the value of an education. I help run a summer basketball league in a neighboring town as coaching/teaching is a passion of mine, and I enjoy motivating children to be the best version of themselves.
Q. What appealed to you about the River Edge School district?
A. I heard many great things about the River Edge schools as I am from a neighboring town. The parents are very involved, and you immediately get the sense that this is a very tight knit community. I attended a PTO event the other day, and I was pleasantly surprised with how many parents were in attendance. The community is very diverse, and I was impressed with the programs that are offered. I am also looking forward to the opportunity to grow with the district.
Q. Tell us something interesting about yourself?
A. I have traveled around North America playing college and professional basketball. I had the opportunity to visit 45 states including Puerto Rico, and internationally I had visited Bermuda, the Dominican Republic, Canada, and Jamaica playing a sport that I love. I earned my Commercial Art Certificate from the Bergen County Academy High School, and I enjoy cooking. My favorite dishes to prepare are seafood, sautéed lamb chops, and poultry dishes.
Ms. Jessica Armstrong - Roosevelt Kindergarten Leave Replacement
Hello! My name is Jessica Armstrong and I am the new Kindergarten teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Ramapo College of New Jersey. I previously taught for three years in the Westwood school district.
I live in Bergen County with my husband, and my dog Kirby. I also coach a competitive gymnastics team at Aeon Fitness and Gymnastics in Hillsdale, NJ. My interests outside of school include baking cakes, spending time with my family, and watching movies. You can find me most weekends taking Kirby to the dog park. I am so excited to continue my career here in River Edge! 
Mrs. Mona Naik - Cherry Hill 5th Grade Teacher
My name is Mona Naik and I am the new 5th grade teacher at Cherry Hill Elementary School. I have earned my bachelors degree from Kean University and have previously taught in the West Orange School District. I live in Bergen County with my husband and precious 16 month old daughter. I enjoy traveling around the world, exploring different places and spending time with my family. My hobbies include interior designing and being crafty. I am thrilled to be a part of the River Edge School District.
Mrs. Sandy Gerbino - Roosevelt 5th Grade Teacher
Hello! My name is Sandy Gerbino and I am the new fifth grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree from Montclair State University in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. I continued my education to earn a K-5 teaching certificate with a Specialization in Middle School Mathematics. Previously, I taught Math, Science, and reading for 17 years at St Thomas the Apostle in Bloomfield, NJ. I live in Essex County with my husband and two of my five children . My interests outside of school include running, spinning, and just being outdoors. You can find me many weekends cheering on Navy Football and spending time with my family. I am so excited to continue my career here in River Edge!
Mariza Vega - NBC School Nurse
Hello! My name is Mariza Vega and I am the new NBC nurse. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from Ramapo College. I have 11 years experience. While I am a new staff member to NBC, I previously was the part-time health aide at Roosevelt Elementary School. I live in Bergen County with my husband and two children. My interests outside of school include baking and spinning. I'm excited to continue my career here in River Edge.
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Ms. Bianca Kim - Cherry Hill Kindergarten Leave Replacement
Hello! My name is Bianca Kim and I am the new Kindergarten teacher at Cherry Hill Elementary School. I graduated from Rutgers University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Master's degree in Elementary and Special Education. I was born in New Jersey, but spent most of my childhood in South Korea. Therefore, I am bilingual in English and Korean. My interests outside of school include singing, dancing, cooking, drinking hot tea, taking long night walks, and spending time with my loving family and friends. I am so thrilled to be a part of the River Edge community and I cannot wait to become a positive influence in my students' lives!
Ms. Megan Lubin - Roosevelt 2nd Grade Teacher
Hello! My name is Megan Lubin and I am the new 2nd Grade teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School.
I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Delaware. I am dual certified for both elementary education and special education. I previously taught for 2 years at Gilbert Avenue School in Elmwood Park, NJ as a Resource Room teacher. I was born and raised in River Edge, NJ and am so excited to work at my alma mater. My interests outside of school include photography, outdoor activities, and yoga. I am so excited to continue my career here in River Edge! 
Mr. Alrick Douglas - Leave Replacement Roosevelt Pupil Assistance Counselor
Hello River Edge! My name is Alrick Douglas and I am the new Pupil Assistance Counselor here at Roosevelt Elementary School, replacing Ms. Tara Malkowski who is out on maternity leave. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Language and Communication from the University of the West Indies, Jamaica and a Master's of Arts degree in School Counseling from Kean University. I began my career in education right here in the River Edge School District 6 years ago, as an instructional assistant at the New Bridge Center. I am delighted to return after a short departure to serve in this capacity. I am from Passaic County where I currently reside with my wife and my two daughters one in the first grade and the other in the 5rh grade. My interests outside of school are writing and running mentorship groups. I am so excited to continue my career here at River Edge.
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Mr. Erik Anderson - Roosevelt Physical Education
Hello! My name is Erik Anderson and I am the new Physical Education teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School. I have a Bachelors of Science in Health and Physical Education from Monmouth University where I was a high jumper on the Track and Field team. My interests outside of school include enjoying the outdoors, working out, and playing sports. One of the best ways I spend my free time is with friends and family. I am very excited to join the River Edge community and cannot wait to see what the future holds!
Ms. Stephanie Repetti - District Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant
Hello! My name is Stephanie Repetti and I am the new Learning Consultant on the Child Study Team for Cherry Hill School, Roosevelt School, and New Bridge Center. I hold a Bachelors Degree in Public Communication from Ramapo College & Master's Degree in Special Education from Caldwell University. I previously taught at the Reed Academy, Hoboken Public Schools, and Jersey City Public Schools where I was also a learning consultant. I currently live in Hoboken with my two maltese puppies, Bella and Lulu. Outside of school, I enjoy activities such as traveling and fitness. I am looking forward to the 2019-2020 school year and continuing my career here in the River Edge Schools!
Mrs. Nancy Fiore - Cherry Hill
PT Resource Room Teacher Hello! My name is Nancy Fiore. I am the new Resource Room teacher at Cherry Hill. I am so excited to be part of the Cherry Hill team and look forward to working with each of you. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fordham University. I went on to pursue a Master's Degree in Special Education from Long Island University. I have been in the education field for almost 19 years! It's hard to believe! I began as a teacher at Park Academy, which is a school for behaviorally challenged children. I went on to work in the Montville School District where I taught for 7 years. While in Montville, I taught a variety of classes such as resource room, in-class support, as well as team- teaching with the general education teachers for all subjects. After I had my second child, I started to work as a therapist for the N.J. Early Intervention System. Working with children ages birth to three years old and their families was very rewarding, however, now that my children are a little older, I seized the opportunity to work in the public school system again. 
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Dylan’s Wings of Change Introduces Wingman Program to River Edge
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Ian Hockley, founder of Dylan’s Wings of Change Foundation, was a guest speaker for River Edge staff members on September 23, 2019. The program was created to help children teach each other empathy, inclusion, respect, and for all the children to feel a part of the school culture. Several staff members went through training to become “teacher champions”.
The River Edge Administration Team with Mr. Hockley
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Fifth and sixth graders at Roosevelt and Cherry Hill Elementary attended information sessions on Dylan's Wings of Change. Wingman is a unique youth leadership program from Dylan's Wings of Change that creates empathy and acceptance leading to inclusion for all children. Participants explore the qualities of a Wingman such as courage, perseverance and resilience. Wingman builds stronger, more connected communities which help all children feel accepted and included. Fifth and sixth grade students became students leaders if they chose to participate in the program.
River Edge Welcomes New Families!
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The Shim Family and new staff enjoying the Welcome Reception.
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The Cherry Hill and Roosevelt PTO held a "Welcome to River Edge" reception on the evening of September 26th in the Cherry Hill multi-purpose room from 6:30pm - 8:00pm. Many new families in town or new families to the River Edge Public School were in attendance along with administration, teachers, Mayor and Council members, and various other town organizations. This evening was a wonderful opportunity to learn that River Edge is SUPER special! |
Liberty Science Center Returns to River Edge Public Schools!
The Roosevelt STEAM Lab is back in action with Mrs. Rigg's First Grade students learning about the phases of the moon through a hands on activity with the help of Liberty Science Center educators. Student scientists were able to describe the moon's many phases and explain that the moon looks different on different days throughout the month. Students noticed a pattern that phases of the moon make it look a little different every day, but it looks the same again about every four weeks. Observing patterns of the sun, moon, and stars in the sky can be observed, described, and predicted are all part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards
(1-ESS1-1).
(1-ESS1-1).
Second Graders in Mrs. Harle's Class eagerly bounded into the Cherry Hill STEAM Lab as scientists ready to investigate materials, describe them, and classify them by observable properties with the help of Mr. Kengo and the Liberty Science Center educators. These young scientists explored a mystery material using their sense of sight, hammers, and mallets. Matter that can be described and classified by its observable properties is part of the New Jersey Student Learning Standards (2-PS1-1).
RE Staff Trained in Responsive Classroom
This summer River Edge administrators and a handful of Kindergarten - third grade staff members received a four-day training on Responsive Classroom. Responsive Classroom is an evidence-based approach to teaching and discipline that focuses on engaging academics, a positive community environment, effective classroom management, and developmental awareness. The Responsive Classroom training continued this fall when grades Pre-k through three staff members received training from Mrs. Edith Polomba. She explained how to create safe, joyful, and engaging classrooms and school communities where students develop strong social and academic skills and every student can thrive. Independent research has found that the Responsive Classroom approach is associated with higher academic achievement in math and reading, improved school climate, and higher-quality instruction. Click here to see a video explaining Responsive Classroom.
PK-3 staff members receiving Responsive Classroom training during fall professional development days.
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Each PK-3 teacher received three books connected to Responsive Classroom to use throughout the school year.
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Mrs. Jaskot is writing a morning message for her new 3rd graders.
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Mrs. Aday's Class is making a list of their "Hopes & Dreams" for the new school year.
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Kindergarten Hopes & Dreams
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Special Area Spotlight
Have you ever been "BOO'd" on the days leading up to Halloween? If you have, you know how much fun it can be! A friend rings your doorbell, quickly ducks into the bushes, and leaves you a small bag of sweet treats and a cute note sharing the holiday fun. It's then your turn to "BOO" someone else and leave your sign up for all to see that you have been "BOO'd". A similar tradition is coming to the hallways of Roosevelt School. Mrs. Holly Fox, our school librarian, has put together book baggies for teachers to read to their K-2 class. Mrs. Fox has selected several award winning, new books from our school's library to share in the classroom. Once the new book has been read to the class, the classroom teacher will check it off on the poster left outside of the classroom door and pass the book baggie along to another classroom. Presto - the next classroom has just been "Book'd"! Some of Roosevelt's new library books include Fly Guy and the Alienzz by Tedd Arnold, The Legend of Rock Paper Scissors by Drew Daywalt, and Hector's Hiccups by Jacqueline Jules.
LeadU Assembly at Cherry Hill & Roosevelt
The Roosevelt and Cherry Hill PTOs brought LeadU to our schools on October 17, 2019. This assembly empowered students to RESPECT, LISTEN & CARE for all! The LeadU crew led the students and teachers in games to show the power of communication and teamwork.
Monster Mash Enjoyed by One and All!
Ghosts, goblins, students, and staff enjoyed a night of thrills and treats at Cherry Hill and Roosevelt Elementary schools on October 25th. Each schools' respective PTOs hosted an evening of dancing, crafts, and games enjoyed by Grade 1-6 students.
Ghosts, goblins, students, and staff enjoyed a night of thrills and treats at Cherry Hill and Roosevelt Elementary schools on October 25th. Each schools' respective PTOs hosted an evening of dancing, crafts, and games enjoyed by Grade 1-6 students.
Mini-Monster Mash for Kindergarten and NBC!
River Edge Fire Department visits River Edge Schools
The River Edge Fire Department came to Roosevelt & Cherry Hill School to talk about fire safety. Students were able to see what it's like to dress in fire protective gear and discussed what to do when there is a fire. Students were taught to stay low and away from the smoke, get out and stay out, and to meet outside in a family meeting spot.
Community Helpers visit Cherry Hill and Roosevelt Schools
River Edge is filled with community helpers like Detective Sanches and Lieutenant Walker. These local heroes stopped by Mrs. Auriemma & Ms. Poole's classroom to discuss Halloween safety with the children in both schools. It's very important to wear a Halloween costume that is bright and can be seen easily in the dark. The children also learned that their parents must check all candy before it's eaten, and to always stay on the sidewalk when trick-or-treating. Thank you for stopping by, Lieutenant Walker and Detective Sanches!
Cherry Hill & Roosevelt 5th Grade Class Trip
Fifth graders at Roosevelt and Cherry Hill Elementary Schools visited Fort Lee Historic Park in Fort Lee, New Jersey. The students were transported back to the 18th century, experiencing life as “recruits” in the Continental Army. An important part of the fifth grade social studies curriculum is the study of the American Revolution, so this field trip provided students with an opportunity to dive right into history! Not only did the students learn about life during the 1700's, but they also studied New Jersey’s role during the Revolutionary War. The students spent the day as a Continental soldier would have: preparing camp, cooking meals, marching in formation, and even charging an enemy redoubt!
Fort Lee Historic Park Fort Lee, NJ |
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Let's Vote!
Students at Roosevelt Elementary School joined together to listen to published author Anita Iaco on the power of voting! Students were empowered by Mrs. Iaco about how important voting can be and how everyday we make efforts to vote for things we believe in. At the end of the assembly, students were able to vote for their favorite fruit, to show their vote counts! The winning fruit was orange! Pictured: Gavin Bressack votes for his favorite fruit at the end of the assembly.
BCUA Grant Won!
Cherry HIll and Roosevelt Schools were both awarded $1000 from the Bergen County Utilities Authority Environmental Awareness Grants again this year. The grants were awarded to purchase a composting machine at each school and for setting up a hydroponic water garden in both STEAM labs. If you are interested in these efforts OR in helping with our very energetic recycling club, please contact Nancy Hafers. The composting rollout will be a big effort and I know some families already do this at home. Your expertise would be extremely valuable.
Pictured from left to right: Freeholder Chairwoman Germaine M. Ortiz, Roosevelt Science/Math Supervisor Mr. Nevin Werner, Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III, Bergen County Freeholder Tracy Silna Zur and BCUA Chairman Ronald Phillips.
Pictured from left to right: Freeholder Chairwoman Germaine M. Ortiz, Roosevelt Science/Math Supervisor Mr. Nevin Werner, Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III, Bergen County Freeholder Tracy Silna Zur and BCUA Chairman Ronald Phillips.
Writing Workshop in the Dark!
Students in Mrs. Haynes' class are using highlighters and black lights in the pre-writing process for their personal narratives.
Veterans' Day Assemblies at Cherry Hill & Roosevelt
Fifth and six grade students at Cherry Hill and Roosevelt School celebrated Veterans' Day.
Roosevelt School Celebrates 100 Years!
Roosevelt School celebrated its 100th Anniversary on November 14, 2019. The celebration took place in both gyms from 7 to 9PM. Fifth and sixth grade students performed under the tutelage of Mr. Brian Urban and Ms. Kara Cuadra. Tony Vouvalidus, former Roosevelt principal, gave the keynote address, the mayor gave a proclamation, and the PTO presented Roosevelt School a commemorative plaque. There were photos from the archives, artifacts, and our students' perspective of the last 100 years.
