Ms. Castaldi's Website!

At OPS, homework supports learning and reinforces skills taught in the classroom. Students will be assigned approximately 30 minutes of homework, Monday through Thursday, along with daily reading. 

Homework in our classroom typically looks like the following:

Math:  math workbook page(s) following weekly lessons 

Language Arts: 20 minutes of reading; reading is encouraged over the weekend

Grade 3 

Field Trip to The Newark Museum

• Students experience an interactive theater for learning about the Legend of Night Sky in the planetarium and The Ballentine House Who Done It mystery.

Jackie Robinson Museum

• A new trip for 3rd grade! An interactive guided museum tour that brings the inspiring story of American icon Jackie Robinson to life. Students will participate in a scavenger hunt to explore rare artifacts, engaging interactive media, and rich historical content to learn about his life. 

John Marshall 

• A local weather news anchor shares his expertise in weather forecasting. Students will have the unique opportunity to see his professional equipment up close and learn how meteorologists predict the weather. This interactive session will deepen their understanding of weather patterns and provide a behind-the-scenes look at how forecasts are made. It’s an engaging and educational experience!

Grade 4 

A Celebration of Learning: Biography Art Gallery & Math Games

• Our 4th graders showcase their hard work and creativity in an exciting Biography Art Gallery & Math Games Celebration! Students proudly present their biography projects, sharing what they learn about inspiring individuals. Families join in the fun, playing math games highlighting problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Field Trip: The Bronx Zoo

• Our 4th graders take an exciting field trip to the Bronx Zoo to deepen their understanding of animal life! Students explore the exhibits, observe animals in their habitats, and gather research that connects with reading, writing, and science. This hands-on experience brings their learning to life and inspires curiosity about wildlife and conservation.

Grade 5

Sharpe Reservation 

• • Our 5th graders embark on an unforgettable 3-day adventure , where hands-on, interactive experiences bring the curriculum to life! This exciting trip is designed to deepen students’ understanding of the environment as they explore nature through guided hikes, team-building activities, and engaging lessons in ecology and conservation. From identifying local wildlife to learning about sustainable practices, students will develop a greater appreciation for the natural world while building lasting memories with their peers.

Veolia Lessons

• • • Throughout the school year, representatives from Veolia visit 5th-grade classrooms to deliver engaging and educational lessons on water and environmental stewardship. These sessions focus on critical topics, including:

      1.  The processes used to ensure safe and clean water for communities.

      2. Highlighting water's essential role in our daily lives and ecosystems.

      3. Understanding how human actions influence water resources and the environment.

L.E.A.D

• The Oradell Police Department's L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs and Violence) program is a specialized curriculum tailored for 5th-grade students. It aims to promote positive attitudes and behaviors, foster healthy relationships, and equip students with the tools to resist substance abuse, conflict, and negative influences. Through interactive lessons and engaging discussions, the program empowers students with the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to make informed decisions and lead safe, healthy, and successful lives.

Support Literacy and Math:

• Read together daily, practice sight words, and encourage discussion about the book by asking questions.  

• Use fun math games and everyday tasks like counting or measuring to build number sense. Math websites can be found on the Student Resources page.  

Encourage Independence and Routines

• Establish consistent routines for homework.

• Assign simple chores to build responsibility and confidence.  

• Have your child set up their own small, quiet study place. 

• Please have your child check their planner and folder for assignments and homework and put it back into their backpack when work is completed.

Foster Emotional Growth:  

• Discuss emotions, practice problem-solving, and celebrate effort over results. 

• Encourage creativity through play, arts, and crafts.  

• Help your child understand that the quality of their work matters just as much as their persistence and grit.

Stay Involved with School:

• Communicate with teachers, review homework, and attend school events.