APRIL 2025 - I Am Greatness Conference 

On May 3rd, our 6th–8th grade boys from School 10 attended the I Am Greatness Conference at JFK High School — and what an inspiring day it was! 

The event featured an incredible panel including G Herbo, Zeddy Will, DJ Mega Jay, Dr. Garrick Beauliere, Intashan Chowdhury, Khamaal Saadiq, Rocky Alam, Steven Castro, and more! 

Students took part in powerful sessions on Anti-Violence, Mental Health, and Empowerment, and enjoyed amazing performances by On Top Music Group, the New Roberto Clemente School Dancers, and presentations from Greek organizations. 

A special moment was the tribute to Jeffery D. Robinson Jr. "Lil Jeff" and the Robinson Family. 

We’re proud our students got to experience such a powerful celebration of community, growth, and greatness.  #IAmGreatness #School10 #Empowerment #MentalHealthMatters #CommunityStrong

April 2025 - Earth Day Fun

Our amazing FSCS Mentors took their groups outside to celebrate Earth Day with hands-on gardening activities! Students learned how to plant and had a blast with some sensory play in the soil. A perfect mix of learning and fun! 

April 2025 - In celebration of Global Youth Service Day, students at Paterson’s Full Service Community School #15 rolled up their sleeves on Friday afternoon to help plant the seeds—literally and figuratively—of a greener future.

With the support of teachers, parents, St. Paul's Community Development Corporation (SPCDC) AmeriCorps members, and volunteers, School 15 officially launched its new School Garden Initiative. First-grade students rotated through stations in 20-minute intervals to get their hands in the soil—filling raised beds with flowers, learning about composting, and witnessing the assembly of a hydroponic shelf designed for year-round indoor gardening.

The event was a collaboration between SPCDC, Paterson Public Schools, the school’s Science Department, and the Full Service Community Schools (FSCS) initiative. United Way of Passaic County provided critical funding for supplies such as garden beds, a composter, storage bins, and shelving units.

April 2025 - A field trip to Paterson Falls offered our 2nd-grade students an exciting opportunity to explore real-world science concepts in a dynamic outdoor setting. The waterfall, located in the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, serves as a powerful example of natural forces at work. Students can observe erosion, water flow, and the power of moving water, directly connecting with 2nd grade science standards related to Earth’s systems, landforms, and natural resources. By witnessing how the falls helped shape the surrounding landscape and even powered early industry, students also begin to understand the relationship between humans and nature. This field experience encourages curiosity, observation, and critical thinking while bringing science lessons to life outside the classroom. 

April 2025 - Public School 5 Health Clinic and NJCDC (FSCS School 5) hosted a special menstrual hygiene assembly for 90 fourth and fifth-grade girls on April 22nd and 23rd, 2025. This important event focused on raising awareness about menstrual health, and each student received a hygiene kit filled with essential items such as pads, pantyliners, lip balm, face wash, tissues, and more. FSCS extends its heartfelt thanks to Justine Ruiz, MSW, LSW, for her insightful presentation and for creating the amazing book for the students, which provided valuable education on this important topic. #MenstrualHealthMatters #GoodHealthStartsWithUs 

APRIL 2025 - FSCS at JFK High School took 26 students to NYU Tisch school of Arts in NYC to explore the world of performing arts and expand their knowledge of the college admissions process for this specific field of study.  

April 2025 - On April 3rd, students participated in a "Decorate Your Own Tote Bag" activity, allowing them to express their creativity through personalized art. In honor of Earth Day, we held a "Create Your Own Zen Garden" activity on both April 10th and April 21st. These sessions were intentionally designed to promote mindfulness and provide students with a calming space to decompress, especially as they prepare for the upcoming NJSLA state testing.

On April 7th, we successfully hosted our Community Advisory Board Meeting, which was held in conjunction with our Student of the Month ceremony and a parent workshop. The evening served as a valuable opportunity to recognize student achievement, engage families, and share important updates and resources with our school community.

March 2025 - Showcase a School 2 and School 16 (21st CCLC)

During cycle 2 students enrolled in the FOCUS 21 afterschool program learned about sustainable cities. Students were engaged with real-world examples and discussed the challenges of an urban environment such as pollution and waste management. Through the engineering design process, the students focused on experimenting and building projects to provide solutions to some of the problems cities face. The main areas of focus for this project were Transportation, Housing, Food/Water, and Energy.

The Parent Titan Day Workshop was an event focused on emphasizing the importance of student attendance. The session featured speakers from various organizations, including McKinney Vento, the Health Center Treatment Coordinator, the Principal, Vice Principal, Attendance Specialist, and Visions Federal Credit Union. While celebrating parents and their involvement, the event highlighted how crucial consistent school attendance is for a child’s success.

The event included raffles, light refreshments, and a special performance by the Boys & Girls Club Afterschool Program in honor of Black History Month, making the day both informative and enjoyable for attendees. 

March 2025 - Students in grades 1-3 at School 15 played Healthy Bingo on March 10 with FSCS nutritionist Kelli Trelles  and Treatment Coordinator Maria Chavez. Students engaged in a MyPlate activity of healthy vs. unhealthy foods bingo. Identifying foods and placing them on the MyPlate chart, students learned about different kinds of protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and grains.   

March 2025 - School 6 kicked off their highly anticipated **Girls on the Run** afterschool program! Girls on the Run is an empowering program designed to inspire young girls while promoting healthy habits. The program pairs each girl with a coach, and together, they practice running twice a week for 6 weeks. Along the way, they also learn valuable lessons about self-esteem, self-worth, and healthy nutrition. We’re all so excited for the upcoming 5K run! #GOPHOENIX 

March 2025 - Students participated in a Friendship Bracelet Activity during their lunch periods. Students made bracelets for a friend, loved one, or someone who may need a pick me up. During our discussion, we practiced healthy communication styles with friends and how to empower and support one another.  

March 2025 - Kula for Karma Yoga - Find Your Zen at the Oasis FSCS After School Program! We’re bringing mindfulness to the mix with Kula Yoga Wednesdays! Each week, students step into a peaceful space where they practice yoga, learn to tune into their emotions, and discover the importance of self-care. Through guided sessions, students explore relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindful movement—helping them manage stress, improve focus, and boost their overall well-being. Yoga becomes more than just a workout; it’s an outlet for emotional expression and a tool for building inner strength.

Sun's Out, Fun's Out! Spring has sprung, and at the Oasis FSCS After School Program, the students are making the most of it! With the sun shining and the weather warming up, it's time to head outside for some fun and creativity. From colorful chalk art to classic games like Duck Duck Goose and hula hoop challenges, our students are embracing the season with energy and excitement. Whether they’re running free across the playground or working together to create masterpieces, outdoor play is the perfect way for kids to explore, socialize, and stay active.

March 2025 - FSCS at JFK High School hosted a young women's luncheon that held an interview/panel discussion during lunch periods on the topics of "Making better choices" & "Healthy boundaries in relationships." We hosted two prominent guest speakers, well-known in the Paterson area: Erin Pompa and Denese Longsworth.  

FSCS at JFK High School celebrated students who completed our drama club or cosmetology workshop (specialization in braiding).  We hosted a certificate award ceremony for those students, with food, the instructors who taught the classes, and a program that included both a drama and cosmetology showcase.  

March 2025 - Full-Service School Community Health Center is excited to share that 121 fifth-grade students participated in our recent program at School 5, where we partnered with COPE to present on the important topic: "Don’t Get Vaped In.”  The April 18 session was informative, engaging, and a huge success! 

March 2025 -Winter 4 Kids

In the month of March, a group of students from grades 5-8 had the chance to go on a 3-day ski trip—something many of them had never experienced before. These students were chosen because of the challenges they’ve worked hard to overcome, whether it’s in the classroom, with behavior, or in their personal lives. This was a first for both the students and the school. These students come from all kinds of backgrounds, and many face unique challenges in their neighborhood. For them, saying “I went on a ski trip!” is something truly special. It’s not an opportunity they get every day, and we’re so proud they got to have this unforgettable experience. Seeing the smiles on their faces because of this trip is something we will never forget.

Read Across America

In celebration of Read Across America, our full-service staff and interns visited grades K-2 for a fun reading event. We read stories like Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes, Cool Beans, Dragons Love Tacos, and Giraffes Can’t Dance. The students were engaged, asked great questions, and really enjoyed the books. At the end of the session, each student received a small token—pencils, bookmarks, erasers, or stickers—to take home. It was a wonderful way to celebrate reading, spark curiosity, and inspire a love of books in our young readers!

March 2025 - National Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of Social and Emotional Learning in the educational environment. SEL helps students develop skills for managing emotions, setting and achieving goals, showing empathy for others, establishing positive relationships, and making responsible decisions. It is celebrated to highlight the role SEL plays in helping students academically and socially thrive. 

Different stations included were:

• Yoga Centric Station

• Craft Station – Hearts and Craft Coloring

• Affirmation Station (Self Portraits)

• Wellness Lab Station (Nails)

• Bead and Build Station

• Journal Journey Station (Write a letter to your future self/envelopes)

• Curiosity Crate Zone Station (Cooling Coping/Sensory gadgets)

• PlayQuest (Games and Coping Strategies)

• Project 201

• Teacher Station

This event at School No. 10 is a wonderful way to integrate SEL into our school community by offering a variety of activities that promote emotional awareness, self-expression, mindfulness, and social skills. Each station provided a different opportunity for students to engage with and reflect on their social and emotional well-being.

MARCH 2025 - All of the 8th grade girls participated in a two part personal development series (March 13th and 18th) led by the nonprofit Yes Miss, Inc which aims to equip and empower young women with the tools and support to pursue their purpose in their communities. The ultimate goal with these sessions was to provide the girls with a safe place to come together to learn about themselves and each other.The first session helped the girls build a sense of community with their peers. They developed their emotional expression and executive functioning skills through interaction, discussion and activities. The second session helped the students recognize their strengths and build their confidence.

The students expressed that they felt inspired by the sessions because they were able to connect with each other and improve their mindset. In the exit survey, one of the students stated “I loved the motivational sessions because it inspired me to be the person that I never saw myself as. Also, it opened my eyes to new careers and opportunities”. FSCS is looking forward to expanding our relationship with Yes Miss, Inc to continue providing enriching opportunities to our students!

February 2025 - FSCS at JFK High School hosted its 3rd Career Expo showcasing different career paths to expose students to entrepreneurship. This time, we hosted a custom cake designer, mental health clinician, non-profit youth organization CEO & a physical therapist. Through this career expo, much transformation has taken place in the lives of our students.  

FEBRUARY 2025 - The Valentine’s Day Estimation Jar Project was a hit, adding a playful twist to the holiday celebration here at School 10! Participants were invited to guess how many items (like heart-shaped lollipops , small chocolates, glowing rings, and pencil decorations) filled the jar. Each person made their best estimate, and the one with the closest guess won a sweet prize, making it a fun and interactive experience for everyone involved.

Not only did it create excitement and friendly competition, but it also sparked conversations and laughter as people tried to figure out the quantity based on the size and shape of the items inside. The Estimation Jar was a great way to engage students of all ages and added a festive and lighthearted touch to the Valentine’s Day event.

February 2025 - Throughout the workshop, participants were introduced to the world of crystals and their various meanings and uses, such as amethyst for calming, rose quartz for love, and citrine for abundance. Parents had the opportunity to choose their own crystals, learning how to connect with them and use them for personal well-being and mindfulness.

The candle-making portion of the event was also a highlight. Parents were guided through the process of creating their own personalized candles, incorporating essential oils and their chosen crystals for added energy. This hands-on activity allowed attendees to take home not just a beautiful handmade candle, but also the knowledge of how to use crystals and candles together for a peaceful, balanced environment at home.

February 2025 - In celebration of Black History Month, Eastside's Full-Service program participated in Eastside’s Black History Month 2-day Production. The play highlighted the story and legacy of Larry Doby. Mr. Doby was an American professional baseball player in the Negro leagues and Major League Baseball. He's also a proud alum of Eastside High School, graduating in June of 1942. 

The play featured his life and all he was able to overcome as a Black man in America. Students showcased their talents through acting, dancing, and reciting the infamous poem entitled, "Caged Bird" by Maya Angelou.

February 2025 - We highlighted our School #15 Full-Service Health Clinic. Providing parents with a Nutrition workshop with information and knowledge for a healthy eating lifestyle from our nutritionist is a school parent/community essential. 

February 2025

Slime STEM Adventure- Taken from the "Community Room Suggestion Box", students participated in a Slime STEM Activity during their lunch periods. With limited recess due to the cold weather, students made their own "Snow Slime" and discussed how slime can be a great tool to use to calm anxiety before a test, stress-relief, and stimulate their senses. Students also mentioned that slime helped them build friendships with other students who like slime as well. 

Perfect Attendance/Principal's List Celebration 2nd Marking Period- For Second Marking Period, FSCS and School Administration celebrated students who made the Perfect Attendance List and Principal's List. Students' names were displayed in front of the main office to recognize their continuous efforts. As a reward, these students received a Certificate of Achievement from Dave & Buster's for 1-Hour Gameplay. We also raffled 4 passes to The Escape Room at the American Dream Mall and announced the raffle for 3rd Marking Period to encourage students to make the list.

JANUARY 2025 - FSCS at JFK High School has introduced, "Trained to Overcome"- a leadership & character formation program, designed to empower & transform the lives of youth. Students build confidence, leadership skills, and lasting connections through social time with meals, fun interactive games, public speaking & dynamic group discussions.  

JANUARY 2025 - 

Winter Tales & Tasty Treats- Family Event

On January 15th, 2025, families gathered for a cozy virtual Storytime. To make the evening even more special, the ingredients for s’mores and hot cocoa were given to the families ahead of time, so they could enjoy making the treats from the comfort of their own homes. A total of 19 kids and 9 adults joined in, sharing stories, laughter, and delicious snacks together. It was a heartwarming night of connection and fun, all while staying snug at home.

Family Friday: Snowman Craft

On January 31st, 2025, a total of 26 families joined in for the After-School Program Family Friday event, where they had a blast making snowmen out of white foam putty. Once the snowmen were shaped, everyone got creative, adding hats, scarves, and noses to make them their own! It was a fun, hands-on activity that brought families together for a memorable time.

January 2025 - School 15 celebrated our Math Minute Superhero's who made it from September into the New/Mid-year point with the highest scores of our Morning Math Minute Meetings. 

JANUARY 2025

Family Candle Making Night

On Friday, January 17, in this new and enriching experience for both parents and students, Two Scents by Bri provided a candle-making workshop. The workshop consisted of a step-by-step tutorial on how to create their own scented candles, with an added twist: goal setting. Parents and students were encouraged to write down their goals for 2025 and place them inside their candles as a reminder to fulfill those goals. The event also featured friendly competitive games, and attendees were seen connecting and enjoying their time together.

1st Marking Period Recognition Celebration

On January 13, the Full Service team and school administration celebrated students in grades 3-8 were celebrated for their outstanding academic achievements, including Honor Roll and the Principal’s List. To mark the occasion, the students were treated to an ice cream party, received award certificates, and enjoyed a variety of board games. The students were seen having a great time and enjoying the fruits of their academic success. Thank you to all the teachers and staff who helped make this event possible! 

January 2025 - The self-esteem activity involved speaking with a group of girls who were selected by the school SAC counselor and guidance team. Initially, it was a bit challenging to engage them, as they weren't accustomed to this kind of setting. However, the activity turned out to be a valuable opportunity to connect with the girls, hear about the issues that were most concerning to them, and offer support in boosting their confidence. It allowed for an open and honest exchange, helping to foster a sense of trust and understanding.  

By providing popcorn as a prize, it adds an element of excitement and motivation for students to show up regularly to class. The incentive helps make attending school feel more rewarding and can be a lighthearted way to reinforce the importance of being present, both for academic success and community engagement. It also promotes positive behavior and builds a sense of accomplishment for students who are consistently attending. Our first winners to reach 10 days of a full class of students is our 2nd Grade Ms. Mattocks class!  

JANUARY 2025 - 

Winter Serenade Concert:

The Winter Serenade Concert at School 2 was an unforgettable night, filled with incredible performances that left everyone in awe. The talented 3rd-5th grade students, alongside the spirited Glee Club, took the stage and wowed the audience, creating a magical atmosphere. Among the standout moments was a breathtaking piano rendition of Bella's Lullaby from Twilight, performed by the self-taught Dariyhon Barker. His heartfelt performance was a true highlight of the evening. To close the night on a high note, the students united for a powerful rendition of Don't Stop Believin' by Journey, sending the audience home inspired and full of hope. It was a night that perfectly captured the heart and soul of our school community!

Family Bingo Night:

Focus 21 and the Oasis After School Program kicked off the year with their first-ever Family Bingo Night, and it was an absolute blast! The night was filled with friendly competition, excitement, and plenty of opportunities for families to bond. The energy was electric, with one lucky student even winning twice! Families walked away with amazing, donated prizes, including themed baskets like Family Game Night and Family Movie Night, all designed to encourage more family fun at home. Due to its huge success, we’re excited to bring this event back in March for even more unforgettable moments!

Ice Cream Social - Attendance Initiative

In our ongoing efforts to boost student attendance, we tracked the attendance of Grades 3-5 throughout December, and any class with 90% attendance or higher earned a fun reward—an Ice Cream Social in January! Students had a blast decorating their own mini sundaes, snapping pictures with friends, and most importantly, learning just how crucial regular attendance is to their success. We’re keeping the momentum going by rolling out another attendance initiative for February. The competition is on—let’s see which class takes the win next!

January 2025 - The Boys and Girls Club Unit Director Celiness hosted a beautiful Art Exhibit for School #6. Parents were invited to join their children in painting canvases together and to enjoy viewing the artwork that students have created throughout the month of January. 

JANUARY 2025 - A family puzzle night at School 10 was designed to bring families together for a fun, interactive event. It encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills as families work together to complete puzzles. It's also a great way for parents and students to bond outside of their home, fostering a sense of community and promoting positive relationships within the school. Plus, it’s a fun way to unwind and spend quality time together! 

A pottery painting event at school is a creative and enjoyable way to bring students, families, and teachers together. The purpose is to provide an opportunity for participants to express their creativity, relax, and have fun while making unique, personalized pottery pieces. It can also encourage teamwork and bonding. Additionally, the activity helps develop fine motor skills and can be a great outlet for self-expression. Overall, it's a way to build community, promote creativity, and offer a hands-on experience that participants can cherish. 

January 2025 - On January 11th, our International Club and the Chinese Dragon Dancing team attended and performed at the Spring Festival hosted by the Fort Lee Chinese American Community Association. Our students opened the joyous event with their performances and were shown lots of love by the community of Fort Lee that densely populated Fort Lee High School's auditorium. The crowd loved our students' display of cultural appreciation. The mayor, councilmen, and various community stakeholders attended and talked about how diverse Fort Lee is and how effortless the merging of cultures has been.

On January 24th, students in the Muslim Cultural Awareness Club and the Teen Center set off to the United Nations headquarters in Manhattan, NYC. Our tour guide walked us through the rooms where some of the most important decisions in the world are made. We discussed the conception of the UN, the past and present geopolitical climates, and the different embassies/missions. Today's young men and women are much more socially and geopolitically aware than ever. With the weight of the world seemingly falling on their shoulders, they left not feeling heavy but empowered. Some picked out the seats they'd like to occupy tomorrow and discussed the ideas and policies they'd like to implement. This was truly a fitting trip for International High School.

JANUARY 2025 - The Full Service Community Schools culminated its Culinary Arts Afterschool Program on December 5, 2024. With a class of 18 students, Chef Beric the Culinary Arts Instructor, wrapped up the session by teaching students how to prepare homemade pizza. Students learned the art of kneading dough, applying sauce and toppings, and managing their time. They then enjoyed their own pizza while developing a new skill and preparing for adulthood.  Among other meals, students also learned to make fried chicken, brownies, and shrimp alfredo.

JANUARY 2025 - Eastside High School held a NJ FAMILY CARE workshop on January 15, 2025. We serviced families from Eastside High School and as well some families from New Roberto Clemente (NRC). Families were also provided with hygiene products. 

DECEMBER 2024 - With the help of very special friends whose hearts are filled with kindness, for the fourth year in a row, FSCS#15 was fortunate enough to celebrate and collect 1,000 gifts for the whole school. On this day 600 students were able to attend school in their Christmas Pajamas and receive one generous round of gifts for being a part of our School Community.  A second round of gifts were provided to children recognized for achieving Perfect Attendance. We were able to host and offer a generous Chick Fil A lunch of Sandwiches, French Fries, and Macaroni and Cheese for students and staff. Their employees also participated in our event collaborating with the School Cafeteria and Special Guest Chick Fil A Cow to serve all 600 children! The students enjoyed Cupcakes, dancing, and celebrating with their School Community.  

DECEMBER 2024 - Boys and Girls Club held a Polar Express theme party for our School #6 parents and students. Students were able to take pictures with Santa (and the Grinch), make their own hot chocolate at our Hot Cocoa Bar, and sing Christmas Carols. 

December 2024—Before the winter break, students were invited to decorate ornaments for their home tree or to hang on the FSCS Holiday Tree. They also wrote goals and affirmations for the new year. The ornaments were sealed, and students will open them at the end of the school year to see how much they've accomplished.  

December 2024 

Bringing Smiles and Joy: Turtle Back Zoo Holiday Lights Spectacular Field Trip

On December 13th, a total of 26 families attended the Turtle Back Zoo Holidays Lights Spectacular Field Trip. This trip was for our After-School families. They got to enjoy the different displays, explore the zoo, and celebrate the holiday season. One highlight of the trip was seeing students and parents touch stingrays up close, making the experience fun and educational.

Celebrating Success- ESL Graduation

On December 18th 2024, we celebrated our ESL Graduates. Five dedicated students completed 11 weeks of basic ESL Learning, demonstrating incredible commitment and growth. The graduation was filled with pride and joy as we recognized their hard work and accomplishments. These students made tremendous progress in building their language skills, opening doors to new opportunities and connections. Congratulations to our graduates!

December 2024 - School 10 worked with The Center for Alcohol and Drug Resource for a once-a-week 7-week program from October to December called the Strengthening Families Program. Within this workshop, the parents and students could have discussions based on how they go about things in their own lives. Some topics discussed were how to handle stress, building bridges, encouraging good behavior, parent involvement, stress (students and parents), and more! This program brought the families closer together and has empowered them in lots of ways. At the end of the program, the families who stayed consistent with coming to the program received a certificate and a gift card for $100! Since it was also around Christmas time, they gave the parents a mug that was tailored to them specifically and the students received a present that was tailored to them as well since we got to know each other. 

Additionally, the Holiday Workshop was where magic happened. Families and students were able to attend and create ornaments and stockings in preparation for the Holidays. They were also able to enjoy some light refreshments and some holiday music to put us in the spirit of Christmas cheer!  

December 2024 - Our Full Service Community Schools (FSCS) program at JFK High School hosted its 1st Family Holiday Pajama Movie Night in partnership with the JFK Teen Center! Dressed in their coziest pajamas, students and families watched Home Alone, with popcorn and nachos, hot chocolate, and enjoyed dinner from the Fast Break Cafe food truck. It was the perfect way to spend time with family and friends right before the holidays. 

December 2024 - Public Launch and Advisory Committee Meeting 

December 2024 - During the 1st Marking period Report Card Night, FSCS hosted the school’s first annual free Tricky Tray. We decided to host a tricky tray during report card night to provide an incentive to increase the number of parents attending. Teachers and staff donated themed baskets such as a baking basket, Arts and Crafts Basket, Game Night Basket, Air Fryer, Detergent Basket, and Diaper Basket. Over 150+ parents attended report card night and they were very excited to have the opportunity to win a basket of their choice.

On December 14th, FSCS hosted a Holiday Fun Fair for all of 4th and 5th grade. This event

was created to bring the holiday spirit to the school and to increase attendance during the last week of school before break. The event consisted of a variety of fun stations like gingerbread house making, stocking decorating, cooking decorating, a hot cocoa station, and a photo booth. The event was a huge success, the students had a fun time interacting with each other and engaging in all of the stations. The holiday spirit was definitely in the air!

On December 11th, Dr. Frank Napier partnered with the organization Girls Helping Girls Period to provide a “If you Know, You Know” menstrual management workshop for all of our 5th-grade girls. The workshop was an interactive experience that showed students what to do when they get their menstrual so they are empowered to care for themselves. They were able to LEARN the basics of the menstrual cycle, get a HANDS-ON experience with different products, play GAMES that highlight important hygiene and safety tips, and BUILD their emergency kit to take home! We are excited for Girls Helping Girls Period to come back for the 2nd part of the workshop in the Spring!

November 2024  - For the First Marking Period, students with Perfect Attendance were entered into a raffle for laser tag passes and put together "Wellness Baskets" for their continuous efforts. 100 students made the Perfect Attendance List and were given a shoutout and a star in front of the main office to encourage other students to come to school to participate in the Second Marking Period raffle and celebration. 

November 16, 2024 - SFLS families attended FSCS/ New Destiny Pumpkin Paradise for a wonderful time where they engaged in autumn-themed activities. Families enjoyed face painting, pumpkin picking, fun games, popcorn, and a photo op. The event created a warm and joyful atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the season and strengthening community bonds. 

November 2024 - Cans for Caring School drive: staff/students were able to donate items for needy families within our school community.

11/4-11/22 Pack for A Purpose: The students in the afterschool program packed self care bags for the homeless and needy, we donated the finished bags to Eva’s Village. Representatives came and spoke to the children about the importance of giving, and the meaning and value of gratitude.

11/26/24 Anti- Bullying WorkshopColoring Activity: Afterschool Students participated in a workshop lead by Jordan from the Public Health Americorp. After the presentation the students colored anti-bullying coloring pages that were hung up in the full service office for the week of anti bullying.

11/13 Slime & Chat: students during the lunch periods were able to come to our Full Service office to create slime. We spoke to the students about their days and had them lead the conversations.

11/18 Bracelet Making: Students during their lunch periods were able to come and make bracelets.

11/21  We had an open conversation about academic and life goals.

Health and Wellness Workshop donation drive: We invited 35 of our most needy families to the school for a brief Health and wellness workshop in where we discussed the effects of stress on the overall health of the mind and body. We then gave away turkeys + self care goodies. More students in need also ended up coming and we donated in total to 40 needy families.

November 2024  - In November 2024, School 10 hosted a highly successful Clothing Drive. The McKinney Vento Department participated, providing valuable information to attending families. Many families expressed gratitude for the wide variety of clothing, coats, sweaters, shoes, and toys available.

The FSCS of School 10 also offered an adult CPR class for parents, emphasizing the importance of CPR knowledge. Parents were CPR-certified by the end of the class and received their certificates the following day. They appreciated the class and felt more confident in their ability to save lives.

Mad Science visited School 10 to conduct science experiments for 4th, 5th, and 7th graders. The students were highly engaged and enjoyed the presentations. Mad Science will return for individual sessions with each grade and provide take-home science experiments.

Additionally, 8th-grade students at School 10 enjoyed delicious pies and shared what they were grateful for. This event also allowed the new 8th-grade student body President and Vice President to gather feedback from their peers about their hopes for the upcoming year.

November 26, 2024  - International High School 11th and 12th graders visited NYC to tour NYU, the New York Public Library, and explore Bryant Park Winter Village. The NYU tour provided students with valuable insights into college life, academic programs, and campus facilities, helping them make informed decisions about their future. Experiencing the vibrant city and its educational opportunities firsthand inspired many students to consider their own college aspirations. The visit also highlighted the importance of college visits for high school students, offering them a glimpse into potential academic paths and the excitement of university life. 

November 2024  - Full-Service Community Schools partnered with 21st Century to coordinate a FAFSA College Planning workshop for Parents and their children, facilitated by HESA. 

November 2024 

Thanksgiving Gathering 

The Oasis FSCS After School Program held its second annual Thanksgiving Gathering, bringing together students and their families for a heartwarming night. This special event allowed everyone to share what they’re grateful for this year, connect, and share special moments. Families also received a turkey and a food box to share with their loved ones for Thanksgiving celebrations. It was a beautiful moment to recognize and celebrate these families, creating lasting memories and a sense of community.

Rutgers 4H Animal Science 

Rutgers 4H returned to School 2 with its exciting Animal Science program, giving students the chance to get up close and personal with a variety of fascinating animals. This month, we had the pleasure of meeting Gus the bearded dragon, Mushu the ball python, Blood the corn snake, and Dot the spotted gecko. We also met Harp, a therapy puppy in training for The Seeing Eye, bringing even more joy to the event. Some students were a bit shy, while others eagerly embraced the opportunity to touch the animals, but all were thrilled to make new animal friends!

Bachata Night 

School 2 hosted its inaugural Bachata Night for Parents, and it was a huge success! Parents had a fantastic time learning everything from basic steps to advanced moves and partnered variations. The night gave them a much-needed break from their daily responsibilities, allowing them to unwind and enjoy themselves. So much so, that they’re already asking for a repeat and we're bringing it back in December!

Alstede Farms

As part of our attendance initiative at School 2, our Middle School students took a trip to Alstede Farms, where they enjoyed a variety of fun, fall-themed activities. They had a blast on a hayride, picked their apples, and navigated through a thrilling corn maze.

November 2024 - On November 6th, Dr. Frank Napier School of Science and Technology hosted its first-ever Hispanic Heritage Assembly. This is a huge accomplishment because the students of Hispanic origin felt seen and represented. The assembly had a variety of acts like singing, dancing, and poetry. FSCS held bachata classes for several weeks leading up to the event and the students performed an energetic routine at the assembly. The students felt proud to highlight Dominican culture, they gained confidence and formed lifelong friendships. We cannot wait to keep the assembly tradition going.

On November 20th, Dr. Frank Napier School of Science and Technology hosted its first attendance initiative, Improved Attendance, Ice Cream Social event. This event was made possible with the help of FSCS, the attendance specialist, and the school administration. We selected students who were on the chronic absenteeism list last year and have shown significant improvement in their attendance this upcoming school year. We treated these students to an ice cream social where they were able to build their own ice cream social. The attendance specialist spoke to the students about the importance of attendance and how to build healthy habits. Going forward, we will host an improved social attendance once a month to reward the students for their achievements.

On November 26th, FSCS planned a community service trip in collaboration with the National Junior Honor Society. Our goal is to build a community engagement program where students can learn about the importance of giving back to the community. Our first trip was to CUMAC, an anti-hunger organization that provides groceries and necessities to those in need. The students received a tour of the entire facility and learned about food security. Then, they spent their time rescuing and sorting produce that would then go out to hundreds of families. The students had so much fun volunteering and are looking forward to the next trip!

October 2024 - Lights On After Dark with the Boys & Girls Club Afterschool Program. Students and parents participated a Sip (applejuice) and Paint event related to Halloween. The students' families were invited to this event to celebrate Halloween. We were able to see some great student artists during this time. We had a couple of parents who were also really good artists!  

October 30, 2024 - Napier FSCS hosted the first-ever Fall Festival (Grades 1st-3rd) at Dr. Frank Napier Jr. School of Science and Technology. The Fall Festival was a day full of fun activities to celebrate the fall season. We transformed the school field into a pumpkin patch with over 200 pumpkins for our students to select from. Also, we had craft stations where the students were able to make their own Halloween masks, color their slap bracelets, and create necklaces. We had a variety of games like fishing for apples, pin the nose, candy corn bowling, and spooky ring toss. We even had a dance teacher leading fun dance animations for the students to let loose! To finish it all off, each class took a group photo at our fall themed photobooth! The students loved all of the fall festivities and were bouncing with energy! 

October 2024 - School 10 had a Harvest Festival for grades K-5. There were multiple stations for the students to stop and trick or treat at. We had a spooky trick for our students where they stuck their hands into the monster's mouth to pull out a treat. Students hesitated at first but were excited with the treat they had chosen and had a good laugh! 

October 2024 - The School Counseling Department and the Full Service Community Schools program came together to provide Eastside students with an opportunity to begin owning their futures. Eastside High School hosted a College & Career Fair on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in the school's gymnasium.  While some students may not get the opportunity to visit colleges, Eastside removed that barrier by inviting various colleges and trades schools to the students. Twenty-four colleges, universities, and trade schools participated in the fair and were thoroughly impressed by the enthusiasm and excitement of Eastside's students. A representative from Passaic County Community College expressed that it was great to begin exposing students to these types of opportunities to give them a head start on their future. An Eastside 11th grader expressed how he overjoyed he was to get an opportunity to visit so many colleges at one time.  To add to the excitement of the college fair, the Marine Corps and Army set up a physical training station where students were challenged to do push-up and pull-ups. Some students took on the challenge while others watched as their peers participated.  By participating in the College & Career Fair, 1, 700 9th - 12th grade students were able to enhance their communication and networking skills and explore their passions. Eastside High School's top priority is to continue providing opportunities for students that will prepare them for life after high school. 

October 2024 - During Family Lego Night parents and students were able to pick out different Legos to build together. This helps with cognitive skills and building up teamwork skills. The parents were excited to do this with their children. We also had our Treatment Coordinator from the Health Center to come and talk to our families who attended this event to talk about the services that are provided in the school.  

October 2024 - In Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, NRC hosted two assemblies featuring Cumbia Band Viva Vallenato. The band performed for the 7th and 8th graders, performing songs from regions of Central and South America. Students and Staff Members enjoyed the performance, dancing, and learning about the different instruments they brought, and the similarities shared within different Hispanic countries.  

October 24, 2024 - A Fun Day at the Pumpkin Patch! 🎃

On October 24th, a total of 221 students in K-3 participated in our Annual Pumpkin Patch! It was a day full of games, pumpkins, and lots of smiles. When students first arrived, there were games to play. We had Connect 4, Tic-Tac-Toe, and Cornhole. Each student got to participate and take turns. After playing games, it was time to pick pumpkins! Students were eager to pick out their own pumpkins. We reminded them to carefully walk and pick their pumpkin from the bottom, instead of the stem. When their pumpkins were chosen, classes had their picture taken at the Fall Photo Op with color leaves, hay bales, balloon scarecrows, and cornstalks. With the help of eight 8th-grade students and our Full-Service Staff, we made a fun and memorable experience for our students. We are looking forward to next year's pumpkin patch.

October 2024 - School 10 Hispanic Heritage Month-related Attendance Incentive. Our parent coordinator and chronic absenteeism specialist assisted us in contacting the second and third graders who missed school thus far in September. We emphasized the value of arriving at school on time, ensuring kids bring in their doctor's notes, waking up on time, and simply showing up. We used various treats from various Hispanic cultures as incentives. We also clarified that when they miss school, they can lose out on these kinds of enjoyable activities.  

October 2024 - Trunk or Treat event held on October 31 at 4 PM at school 16. This festive celebration provided a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience for our K-5 students and the wider community. The event was filled with vibrant decorations, creative table displays, and an abundance of treats, creating a magical atmosphere for both children and parents. The kids had a wonderful time exploring the various themed tables and collecting goodies in a secure environment. Overall, the Trunk or Treat event was a resounding success, fostering community spirit and ensuring that our families could celebrate Halloween with joy and safety.

September 2024 - Our Partner schools, Passaic Highschool and Dr. MLK Jr. #6 participated in the city's annual Mexican Festival which honors Mexican Independence Day. We partnered with United Way, Boys and Girls Club of Paterson & Passaic, and Full Service, to give out information regarding the Health Centers and all the new resources that are open to the community through our Full Service grant. 

September 24, 2024 -  ATMA held a successful Back to School Night from 6 to 8 PM, bringing together parents and guardians for an informative and engaging evening. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for families to meet their child’s teachers and gain valuable insights into the upcoming 2024/2025 school year. Our Principal, Ms. Payne, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining student expectations and what families can look forward to in the year ahead. Her insights set a positive tone for the school year, fostering a strong partnership between home and school.  In addition to meeting teachers, parents had access to a wealth of resources through our Full Service Community Schools initiative. We were thrilled to promote free health services available at the school, ensuring families are aware of the support at their disposal.  The evening also featured a vibrant community bazaar, showcasing various local agencies dedicated to supporting our families. Vendors included NJ Family Care, CFBNJ (Community Food Bank of New Jersey), Utilities Assistance, and New Destiny Family Success Center, which highlighted their Healthy Women, Healthy Families program. Additionally, the Go F.A.R. initiative (Fathers Advancing and Reconnecting) was present to provide resources specifically for fathers and families.

September 24, 2024 - IHS hosted a back-to-school night festival that was nothing short of spectacular! We were thrilled to welcome an unprecedented number of families to our campus for a night of fun, information, and community building. Families enjoyed delicious food, thrilling movies, and captivating dance performances by our Chinese club. But the night wasn't just about fun and games; it was also an opportunity to connect with our community and provide essential resources. We were delighted to offer voter registration services, ensuring that our students and their families were informed and empowered to participate in the democratic process. Our health center provided valuable information and registration assistance, helping to promote wellness and access to care. Additionally, our FAFSA information table helped students and their families navigate the financial aid process, ensuring a brighter future for all. The success of this back-to-school night festival is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, students, and community partners. We are grateful for the overwhelming support we received and look forward to continuing to provide exceptional educational experiences and resources to our students and families. 

September 2024 - Students at School 2 participated in a locker decorating activity with their parents on Back to School Night. Students decorated their lockers with funny magnets, positive affirmations, magnetic baskets, mirrors, and notepads.  They decorated their lockers with affirmations to remind them during the school day to "Keep Smiling", "Let Their Light Shine", "You're Destined for Success", "Believe in Yourself", "Be the Best Version of Yourself", " You are Brave", "You Got This" and to "Dream Big".  

9/18/24-Back School Night

For back-to-school night School 15 introduced the Full Service program to parents in English and Spanish and had a table with Full Service Health Application forms as well as the Afterschool Program Applications. We had a “photobooth” section with back-to-school props so that families could take pictures. We also had an activity for parents where they could write letters to their children so that the next day they could read their parent's encouraging, and inspiring words and start their day motivated and encouraged.

September 2024—Eastside's Full Service program hosted a Backpack Giveaway in September. Because of our partnership with Montclair State University One Square Mile & Bonner Foundation and the PTZ Pack It Up, the Full Service program received over 300 backpacks filled with essential school supplies. Students went shopping for the bookbag of choice for themselves and their siblings. 

September 2024 - To promote our services to the families, School 10 held a Meet & Greet event in conjunction with the FSCS Site Coordinator and Treatment Coordinator on Back-to-School Night. Additionally, CFBNJ came by and gave information regarding local food programs in the area. The Strengthening Families Program came out to chat with our families about the forthcoming program that will be conducted at the school, and the Boys & Girls Club of Paterson and Passaic afterschool program gave out applications and spoke with the interested families.  

September 2024 -  FSCS School 2 celebrated its fifth annual Dad's Take Your Child to School Day. Students posed with bright smiles with the father figures in their lives, celebrating the important role they play in their lives. They enjoyed some breakfast and quality time together before the start of the school day.  

September 6, 2024 - FSCS hosted a Pep Rally at ATMA in collaboration with Project Gametime, dedicated to fostering social-emotional learning among our students. The event aimed to enhance confidence, resilience, and teamwork through a series of high-energy games and engaging activities. Students participated enthusiastically, showcasing their creativity and collaboration skills. A highlight of the day was a student performing a self-written rap, expressing personal thoughts and talent. Students participated in games that involved active listening and emphasized communication and teamwork. The Pep Rally not only energized the school spirit but also reinforced the importance of social-emotional development. We look forward to more events that empower our students to thrive both academically and personally! 

August 30, 2024 -  ATMA hosted the "Back to School Chat & Chew," a delightful event that brought together parents, students, and staff in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Set in a relaxed BBQ-style environment, it was the perfect opportunity for families to meet our Principal, Ms. Payne and engage with the Full-Service staff. The event featured a variety of activities designed to foster community and support for the upcoming school year. Parents were greeted with welcome kits filled with essential resources, ensuring they had everything they needed to start the year off right. Our dedicated, teacher coordinator, Ms. Johnson was on hand to answer questions and provide insights into what families can expect this school year. 

Attendees also had the chance to purchase uniform shirts, making it easy for families to prepare for school while connecting with one another. This afternoon was filled with lively music and delicious food, creating an enjoyable setting for families to relax and mingle. 

April 2024 - 

We're so excited about our new garden!

K-2 after school program, enjoying the planetarium 

Ramadan Celebration

April 2024 - April 12th: Our school's Friday Family movie night was a huge success! Families gathered to watch the movie Elemental while enjoying popcorn and drinks. It was a great opportunity for families to come together, enjoy a movie, and support a good cause.

On Monday, April 15th, we celebrated Cultural Diversity Night with great enthusiasm. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students and families to explore different cultures from around the world through hands-on learning and sampling of delicious foods. The Students were thrilled to receive passports at the door, which were stamped with a flag sticker from each country they visited. This interactive approach allowed them to experience each culture's uniqueness and appreciate our school's diversity.

April 16th- Our Student of the Month celebration was a great success! We had an amazing turnout, with 46 family members joining us to celebrate our high-achieving students. It was a fantastic opportunity for us to recognize and honor our students and their guardians' hard work and dedication. Students and guardians were presented with a Certificate of Excellence for their outstanding achievement during the event. We celebrated the occasion with a small incentive of family pictures, and of course, no celebration is complete without cake!

Full-Service Community Schools Health Center and Full-Service School 5 (NJCDC) received a generous donation of about 800 toys from Councilman Shahin Khalique on Tuesday, April 9th, 2024. This toy incentive is intended as a holiday present for our Muslim students, who will be celebrating on April 10th, 2024. The donation was extended to all students. School 5 students were overjoyed by your thoughtful contribution. Your generosity means so much to us, especially during this special time of celebration. We Thank you, Councilman Shahin Khalique, for Your generous donation, has touched us deeply, and we are honored to have you as a part of our School 5 family. Additionally, we wanted to extend our sincerest thanks to Mayor André Sayegh for gracing our event with his presence. His attendance added an extra layer of joy and significance to our celebration, and we are truly honored by his participation. 

April 2024 - JFK students partaking in sports physicals and Vision to Learn services at our JFK Health Center! Go Knights!