Message from the Office of the SuperintendentDear Teachers and Instructional Staff, The school year is off to an incredible start, and our team has been truly inspired by the exceptional work unfolding throughout District schools. In every edition of Teacher Talk, you will find important information from various District departments. Please review each submission carefully. Have a great week of teaching and learning! Superintendent Roger León
Deputy Superintendent Yolonda Severe
Assistant Superintendent Sandra Marques |
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I Believe in You Grant Teachers are vital to the success of our students. With the “I Believe in You” grant, teachers will demonstrate how they are helping students learn to think critically and solve problems. Grants in the amount of $1,000 will be issued to every teacher in each school. Grant funds can be used for instructional materials and supplies. See below for further information:
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I Believe in My PLC GrantThis grant provides teachers, possessing a broad vision of what it means to teach and learn, the resources needed to pursue self-designed professional learning experiences. Teacher teams will work collaboratively to determine how funds will be allocated for the grade level or department. One grant will be allocated per school in the amount of $3,000-$7,000. Grant funds can be used for instructional materials and supplies. See below for further information: |
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High School Teachers
NEW ITEMS |
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Grading Policy Reminder (New)From: Esther Lewars, OPPET - Student Information Services
Email: elewars@nps.k12.nj.us The District uses three grade scales: Default, Honors, and AP. The Honors grade scale offers greater grade point values than the Default scale, and the AP scale is greater than the Honors scale. For additional information about the differentiation, click here. Note that honors courses and college courses both utilize the honors grading scale. |
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 Student Recognitions (New)
From: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
This is intendent to explain how students at your school are recognized district-wide.
Principals complete a Google Form to highlight outstanding individual and group student achievements each month. This form is always completed no later than the Friday before the monthly board meeting, and used to recognize city, state, national, and international achievements. This creates the Student Recognition portion of the Newark Board of Education Public Meeting presented by the Superintendent, and they are further highlighted at the District Staff Convocation as you saw this month.
Please connect with your Principal to ensure all recognitions are captured in a timely manner. If you do not meet the monthly deadline, then always feel free to submit for the next month. |
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Inclement Weather Notifications (New)From: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
 The Newark Public Schools has 182 instructional days of school. It is important to note that the two negotiated additional days are actually instructional days and not built-in snow days like other districts. Since the school year started so late, we have very little wiggle room after the last day of school this year, which is June 28, 2027. Multiple factors determine school closings or delayed openings. While we hardly ever close, it is important that all communication protocols are in place because the health and safety of students and staff is the #1 priority.
Messages from the Superintendent through Blackboard Connect, just like on the first day of school, are for families and their students. For example, a delayed opening of 10 am is for students. Staff are to adjust to that change in time for students accordingly.
The Superintendent will discuss this topic at the first Superintendent’s Council of Teachers meeting in October to provide additional guidance to teachers to share with their colleagues. |
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Saturday School Dates SY 2026-27 (New)From: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
Please review the Saturday School Dates SY 2026-27, which outline Saturday School for students in Grades 3-8 and Saturday School for students in Grade 11. |
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Athletic and City-Wide Events SY 2026-27 (New)From: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
Homeroom Teachers should share these dates during Homeroom.
Coaches and Advisors should share with their students. |
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Verification and Recertification of McKinney-Vento Eligibility 26–27SY (New)From: Stacy M Pelham Hale, Office of Student Life
Email: s1hale@nps.k12.nj.us
All McKinney-Vento Points of Contact are required to contact every student and family currently identified as eligible for McKinney-Vento services.
During this outreach, please determine whether the student continues to meet the McKinney-Vento definition of being displaced/homeless or whether the family has secured permanent housing.
For each student: This review is necessary to ensure that eligibility records are accurate and that students continue to receive the appropriate supports and transportation services.
Please complete this process no later than 9/16/26. |
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New McKinney Vento Transportation Request Process (New)From: Stacy M Pelham Hale, Office of Student Life
Email: s1hale@nps.k12.nj.us
All McKinney-Vento Points of Contact (MV POCs) must now submit transportation requests for General Education Students ONLY through the McKinney-Vento Transportation Request Google Form.
Transportation Requests FYI: - Submit requests only for general education students enrolled in your school.
- Submit a separate request for each sibling attending your school.
- If siblings attend different NBOE schools, each school's MV POC will be asked to submit a separate request.
- Newark high school students will receive a bus pass only (if they live beyond walking distance).
- Newark elementary school students may receive in-district busing or a bus ticket and parent bus pass (if requested and eligible).
- Students living outside Newark will receive out-of-district transportation.
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Submit Your Proposal For Gen Green! (New)From: Kathleen Tierney, Office of Science
Email: ktierney@nps.k12.nj.us The next cycle of Gen Green is upon us. This youth-led sustainability initiative allows students to propose, develop, and vote on sustainable projects with the chance for their winning project to be announced on Earth Day 2027. If you are interested in partnering with Newark's Office of Sustainability, upon your principal's approval, please contact gengreen@ci.newark.nj.us. They will work with you to tailor idea collection to your school's needs. |
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Investing for a Solid Financial Future (New)From: Barbara Evans, Office of Federal Programs & Grants
Email: bevans@nps.k12.nj.us Take an hour to invest in yourself. Join Prudential Pathways for an informative virtual seminar designed to make financial planning feel less intimidating and more empowering. The session will explore investing basics, compound growth, market changes, and more. The event will be held on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. |
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PowerSchool Maintenance Days 2026-2027 (New)From: Esther Lewars, OPPET - Student Information Services
Email: elewars@nps.k12.nj.us PowerSchool requires periodic downtimes to run processes not possible while the system is running. The PowerSchool Maintenance Calendar is subject to change. All PowerSchool maintenance days occur when school is not in session, and every effort is made to not have PowerSchool down the weekend before grades are due or stored. All staff and teachers are notified on the PowerTeacher login screen when an upcoming shutdown will occur. |
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All Teachers
PREVIOUS ITEMS |
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 | Student Use of Internet-Enabled DevicesFrom: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
 Per File Code 5142 Pupil Safety, students are prohibited from using personal internet-enabled devices (including, but not limited to, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart glasses) from bell to bell through the entire school day. The bell-to-bell timeframe encompasses from when the bell rings at the start of the school day until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the academic day. This includes on school premises or at school functions.
If a student desires to carry an internet-enabled device during the school day, the parent/guardian and student must execute a User Agreement, which must be on file in the school office before the device is brought to school.
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High School Guidebook 2026-2027From: Dr. Paula Perrone, Office of the Superintendent
Email: pperrone@nps.k12.nj.us
The High School Guidebook is published annually to provide high school students and their families with a guide to the District's expectations, guidelines, and procedures.
The High School Guidebook 2026-2027 is being shared as a resource. |
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Guidance for Emergency Remote Instruction 2026-2027From: Marialana Juliano, Office of the Deputy Superintendent
Email: mjuliano@nps.k12.nj.us
In accordance with New Jersey State Legislature P.L. 2020, Chapter 27 and State of New Jersey Department of Education guidance, the Newark Board of Education will implement the Guidance for Emergency Remote Instruction during a District closure lasting more than three consecutive days due to a declared state of emergency, declared public health emergency, or a directive by the appropriate health agency or officer to institute a public health-related closure.
The Guidance for Emergency Remote Instruction 2026-2027 can be accessed from the District’s website: https://www.nps.k12.nj.us/documents/guidance-for-emergency-remote-instruction-2026-2027/
All Teachers and Instructional Staff should have created virtual WebEx classrooms and ensure that the links are shared on the school’s website. Also, please be mindful that all students will need to have their Chromebooks at home if and when the Guidance for Emergency Remote Instruction is implemented. |
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NPS CaresFrom: Dr. Samantha Lott-Velez, Student Support Services
Email: slott@nps.k12.nj.us
 The Public Service Announcements (PSAs) highlight student voices and encourage meaningful conversations.
Our students have created powerful public service announcements addressing issues that directly affect their lives and school communities, including attendance, anti-bullying, and mental health. These videos give students an opportunity to hear important messages through the voices and experiences of their peers.
Teachers and student support staff should incorporate the PSAs into class discussions, counseling lessons, restorative circles, and other appropriate learning opportunities. A PSA can serve as a brief but meaningful opening to a conversation about belonging, choices, responsibility, help seeking, and the impact our actions have on others.
To deepen the experience, consider asking students to respond to one or a few more questions after viewing. For example: - What message stood out to you?
- Why does this issue matter in our school community?
- What choice or action does the video encourage?
- How can students support one another?
- Where can students go for help?
The PSAs may also be used by designated staff as a preventative or part of a restorative response when a student’s behavior violates a related district policy. In those situations, the purpose is not simply to require the student to watch a video, but to help the student reflect, understand the impact of the behavior, identify a better response, and determine what support may be needed.
A short video can begin a conversation. What makes it meaningful is what we help students think, say and do afterward.
Please connect with your school administrator or your school-based plan for implementation. |
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National Board CertificationFrom: Dr. Kashon Lopes, Office of Staff Development
Email: KLOPES@NPS.K12.NJ.US  National Board Certification (NBC) is a voluntary, advanced teaching credential that goes beyond state licensure. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certifies teachers who successfully complete its rigorous certification process. The NBOE will pilot a program to help 20 eligible teachers become certified. The Office of Staff Development will be hosting a virtual informational session on October 16, 2026, from 4 - 5 PM.
For more information on becoming a National Board-Certified Teacher and to register for the session, please view the Flyer linked below.
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Join the Science Office HoursFrom: Tracy Cummings, Office of Science
Email: tcummings@nps.k12.nj.us The science team will be holding office hours on Tuesdays in September starting at 3:30 pm. K-8 science teachers are encouraged to drop in with questions or discuss new ideas. Be sure to access the correct Webex link below: We look forward to the conversations! |
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Arts in Action: No Stopping Our Purpose!From: Devonne De Nose, Office of Visual and Performing Arts
Email: d1denose@nps.k12.nj.us The Office of Visual and Performing Arts is excited to welcome you to a new school year. This year’s theme is Arts in Action: No Stopping Our Purpose! and we will continue our work to celebrate the creativity of our students as they develop artistic literacy and grow their craft.
As we launch into this school year, remember that National Arts in Education Week is September 13-19, 2026! Please use this flyer to spread awareness.
Our office would like to see all of the wonderful celebrations and work throughout the week of September 14th, so please upload your submissions here! |
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Homework HotlineFrom: Michael Padilla, Office of Instructional Technology
Email: m4padilla@nps.k12.nj.us Homework Hotline returns on September 14th! Certified teachers will be able to meet with students virtually to provide live assistance to all grade levels in all content areas. Please share this information with all staff and students and see this flyer for additional information. |
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Culture & Climate Calendar SY 2026-27From: Rania Sawaged, Office of Student Life
Email: rsawaged@nps.k12.nj.us
Please review the Culture & Climate Calendar for the 2026–2027 school year. This calendar is intended to serve as a guide when planning required and suggested activities, service/community projects, and other school events throughout the year.
To support a more streamlined artifact collection process, the principal will designate one staff member each month to be responsible for uploading photos and artifacts to your school's assigned slide. Please refer to the Culture & Climate Mandatory Artifacts for guidance.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. |
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Mandatory HIB/Title IX SY 2026-27 Documents/LinksFrom: Stacy M. Pelham-Hale, Office of Student Life
Email: s1hale@nps.k12.nj.us As we prepare for the 2026–2027 school year, we invite you to review the attached HIB/Title IX Resource Link. This resource has been created to support your school throughout the year and includes the following materials: - HIB and Title IX PowerPoint presentations for staff, students, and parents
- Training templates
- Principal Certification Forms
- HIB/Title IX Complete Documentation Forms for the 2026–2027 school year
HIB/Title IX Resource Link – 2026–2027 School Year Documents: HIB/Title IX Resource Links to Powerpoints Trainings & Certification Forms
Please keep this resource readily available, as it contains the forms and materials needed to ensure compliance with HIB and Title IX requirements throughout the school year.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Supervisor Stacy M Pelham-Hale at s1hale@nps.k12.nj.us. |
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OSE Professional Development and UpdatesFrom: Candice Wells, The Office of Special Education
Email: c1wells@nps.k12.nj.us
New this year is the requirement by NJDOE for notice to be sent to families two days in advance of an IEP meetings (PL2025). See the OSE newsletter for resources for PL2025, access to EdPlan for new special education teachers, and AMIRA assessment updates. PD information for paras, teachers and CSTs are also included. Information enclosed within the OSE newsletter are for general education teachers, special education teachers, and child study team members.
OSE will host OSE Office Hours on September 15th and 17th from 3:15 pm to 4:30 pm to assist with EdPlan and/or Curriculum questions. See newsletter to register. |
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Marking Period Calendar SY 2026-27From: Esther Lewars, OPPET
Email: elewars@nps.k12.nj.us Here is the 2026-2027 Marking Period Calendar. The first Progress Report is due on Thursday, October 8. Only assignments in the Formative Assessment and Summative Assessment categories will count toward final grades at the end of the cycle. |
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PowerTeacher Pro Gradebook CategoriesFrom: Esther Lewars, OPPET
Email: elewars@nps.k12.nj.us NBOE uses two categories of assignments to determine a student’s grade: Summative Assessments and Formative Assessments. If other categories are used for assignments in PowerTeacher Pro, the assignments will not count for the student’s overall grade. All categories should be made inactive except for the two categories that are district wide categories in all gradebooks. Use the Inactivating Gradebook Categories document to view and edit your gradebook categories as needed. |
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Parent Engagement Publications - FREEFrom: Barbara Evans, Office of Federal Programs & Grants
Email: bevans@nps.k12.nj.us Increase Parent Engagement by Partnering with Families! Share the monthly Parent Newsletter and Daily Learning Planner with families. Available in English and Spanish, these resources support parents of students from elementary through high school with learning tips, activities, and strategies to reinforce academic success at home. A valuable tool for teachers, social workers, school counselors, and support staff, both publications are updated monthly. An effective practice is to include the links in weekly family communications and highlight one activity for parents and students to complete together. |
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Benefits Onboarding InformationFrom: Jennifer Medina, HRS
Email: j1medina@nps.k12.nj.us New employees should review the benefits onboarding materials that are sent via district email and complete all required enrollment steps. Benefits include mandatory TPAF pension enrollment with a 7.5% contribution, life insurance coverage, medical and prescription plans (NJEP or GSHP), dental, vision, and optional Flexible Spending Accounts. Benefits elections must be completed online through the WEX portal after work email access is established and eligibility is activated. Employees enrolling dependents must provide supporting documentation. Visit the https://nboehrs.com/eligibility/#new-hire HR and WEX Benefits Portal www.nboebenefits.com for plan details, enrollment instructions, and additional resources. |
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Escrow Program (Open Enrollment and Refund Dates)From: Maribel James, HRS - Office of Employee Services
Email: NPSCompensation@nps.k12.nj.us Escrow Open Enrollment for current and newly hired employees is always May 1st through September 15th! Due to security restrictions, you will not be able to enroll or select an option unless you are physically at one of our district sites.
Only 10-month and 11-month full-time employees can self-enroll, discontinue, and switch options in the Escrow Program. PPD and 12-month employees are exempt from this deduction. For up-to-date information, feel free to visit our NBOE HRS Portal at https://nboehrs.com/es#escrow. |
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Guidelines for Managing Student ChromebooksFrom: Abdullah Ansari, Division of Information Technology
Email: AAnsari@nps.k12.nj.us
 As in prior years, schools are to distribute student Chromebooks using the district’s Chromebook Distribution Formula where students in grades K, 5, and 9 receive the newest Chromebooks in inventory. Chromebooks are to be managed in Incident IQ Asset Management platform that was deployed last year. Schools must verify all student devices in Incident IQ and update each device profile with pertinent information including student’s name and devices status. Signed parental agreements are to be uploaded to the platform as well.
With the increase in cost of technology due to RAM and hard drive shortages, it is important that all schools enforce the established fee schedule for damaged and lost Chromebooks in order to retain 1:1 student to device ratio. Please refer to the pertinent guidelines disseminated in June 2026 linked below.
Chromebook repairs will be done by IT based on the information entered in Incident IQ. Therefore, it is imperative that schools continue to update the whereabouts and conditions of the devices in the platform. This year, the district will replace a large number of aging Chromebooks in accordance with the district’s device replacement policy. Additional information will be forthcoming. |
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 | Teacher Talk is emailed every other Monday. The submission deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. |
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Contact Us To support and encourage highly effective instruction, Teacher Talk synthesizes information and resources that will help NPS teachers meet the expectations of the framework for effective teaching. Please open the form with Firefox or Chrome in order to add attachments.
You may submit items for inclusion in the Teacher Talk newsletter via this form: https://forms.gle/oDhXEiLwfVc5rmpE6 The weekly submission deadline is Wednesday by 5:00 p.m. before Monday distribution. |
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