October 2017
Buddy Benches in River Edge Schools
The "buddy bench" is a simple idea to eliminate loneliness and foster friendship on the playground. Let's spread the message of inclusion and kindness! New Bridge Center, Cherry Hill School and Roosevelt School all have a new "buddy bench" to spread that message! This special project was made possible by the student council. Here are some student guidelines:
Below are links to see just how the buddy bench works to foster acts of kindness!
- If you are sitting on the bench, it means they are looking for a friend. When someone asks you to play, join them, and always remember to glance over at the school's Buddy Bench to invite new friends to join in on the fun.
- If you are not sitting on the bench, ask your classmate on the friendship bench to play, and make a new friend today! Keep growing your circle of friends until everyone has someone to play with. :)
Below are links to see just how the buddy bench works to foster acts of kindness!

Bruce Coville Visits Cherry Hill School!
Cherry Hill students were fortunate to have a very special visit from the author Bruce Coville in October! Mr. Coville is a fantasy and children's author. He created the I Was a Sixth Grade Alien and Magic Shop book series. His other works include the Unicorn Chronicles and the Space Brat series. First published in 1977, Coville has written over 100 books!
Having Mr. Coville come to Cherry Hill School, students made a powerful connection to the art of the written word; He helped bring books to life for them. During the assembly, he introduced students to the processes of writing, developing characters, and expressing creativity. Some students got to meet Mr. Coville up close at a luncheon in the Library with Mrs. DelPriore, the librarian. It was an experience students (and teachers) will cherish for lifetime!
Having Mr. Coville come to Cherry Hill School, students made a powerful connection to the art of the written word; He helped bring books to life for them. During the assembly, he introduced students to the processes of writing, developing characters, and expressing creativity. Some students got to meet Mr. Coville up close at a luncheon in the Library with Mrs. DelPriore, the librarian. It was an experience students (and teachers) will cherish for lifetime!
Teachers are Forever Learners
Teachers and administrators recently created "maker spaces" in during their Professional Development day. A makerspace is a collaborative work space for making, learning, exploring and sharing that uses both high tech, low tech, and no tech tools. Teachers used cardboard, legos and art supplies to create something out of nothing and explored their own interests to create a makerspace. These spaces are also helping to prepare those who need the critical 21st century skills in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM). They provide hands on learning, help with critical thinking skills and even boost self-confidence. Below, teachers and administrators from Roosevelt, Cherry Hill and New Bridge Center are working on creating their Maker Spaces! They will be working on these back in the classrooms and in the STEAM Labs with their students in the near future! Be sure to visit November 2017 REACH page for more "Teachers are Forever Learners!"
Fort Lee Historical Field Trip
All 5th grade classes at Cherry Hill School recently visited Fort Lee Historical Park. This park is an important location in history as it was selected to help defend New York and the Hudson Valley against the British during the American Revolution.
The 5th graders participated in an extensive program that provided the experience of living in an 18th Century Military Camp. This program included a film on Fort Lee, guided tour of the Visitors' Center, candle-making and casting mini-musket balls, setting up camp, cooking (and eating) an 18th century meal, military drills, tour of gun batteries, musketry demonstration, and other activities that helped gain an understanding of life in Revolutionary times.
This is a comprehensive program, and it is unique. Highly recommended for all elementary school children. A pre-program visit to the Park by the teacher in charge is required. Below, enjoy pictures of students in 18th Century Military action!
The 5th graders participated in an extensive program that provided the experience of living in an 18th Century Military Camp. This program included a film on Fort Lee, guided tour of the Visitors' Center, candle-making and casting mini-musket balls, setting up camp, cooking (and eating) an 18th century meal, military drills, tour of gun batteries, musketry demonstration, and other activities that helped gain an understanding of life in Revolutionary times.
This is a comprehensive program, and it is unique. Highly recommended for all elementary school children. A pre-program visit to the Park by the teacher in charge is required. Below, enjoy pictures of students in 18th Century Military action!
Halloween Celebration!
Traditional Halloween festivities took place at Roosevelt School, Cherry Hill and New Bridge Center! Click on an image below to read about the events!
Pennies for Puerto Rico

A short time ago, Hurricane Maria ravaged the island of Puerto Rico. At the time of the collection, 97% of the population is still without power and at least half are still without running water. Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, is in desperate need of help. The 6th grade classes helped those in need on the island of Puerto Rico and held a coin drive to raise money for those affected. The funds raised will be given to Unicef on behalf of our school. Ninety percent of every dollar Unicef raises, goes towards helping children. Mrs. Patrocinio was happy to report that almost $600 dollars was raised and donated to the worthy cause!