May, 2025

Dear Switlik Families,

As we embrace the warmth and new beginnings that spring brings, we are reminded of the exciting energy and growth that comes with this time of year. Spring is always a season full of renewal, and it’s also a time when our school community is bustling with activity. With many important events and milestones ahead for our students, we are looking forward to celebrating their hard work and achievements in the coming weeks. 

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our incredible Parent Teacher Network (PTN). During Teacher Appreciation Week, the PTN went above and beyond to make our educators feel valued and appreciated. From the delightful breakfast to kick off the week, to the delicious lunch, a coffee truck and the thoughtful snacks  – their efforts truly made a difference in showing our teachers how much they are cherished.

A highlight of the week was the gift basket auction, which added a personal and fun touch to the celebrations. It’s through the generosity and dedication of our PTN that we are able to create such meaningful experiences for our staff, and we are incredibly grateful for their continued support.

As always, thank you to all of our families for the support and love you show to our school. It’s because of this strong partnership that we continue to foster a positive and nurturing environment for our students and staff.

NJSLA Testing:  We encourage you to visit the district’s “Understanding Assessments and Grading” resource page, which has a host of information about the testing including the full testing calendar for each school.  As I’m sure you’re aware, a child will perform more successfully on a test if he/she has proper rest, good nutrition and arrives at school on time.  Your special attention to these areas will help ensure your child has his or her best chance for success!

Students must make sure that their Chromebook is fully charged for testing EVERY DAY.  Also, note that cell phones and smartwatches are prohibited during state testing.  All cell phones and smartwatches must be silenced and stored in backpacks.

NJSLA Testing Dates will be as follows:

Grades 3-5 Literacy:  May 6-7

Grades 3-5 Math:  May 13-15

Grade 5 Science:  May 20-21

Game Days:  Our Game Days are quickly approaching.  Your child(ren) should bring a towel, cold drinks (no soda, please), healthy snacks, a hat…and be sure to put sunscreen on at home, as teachers are not permitted to do so on your behalf.  We are requesting that students do not wear or bring sunglasses to Game Day, as they get lost or broken since they cannot wear them to play.  Please be sure your child wears sneakers and keep all jewelry at home on Game Days!  We are looking forward to action packed days!  Please see the schedule:

Kindergarten:                       Wednesday, May 21st  

Grade 1:                               Thursday, May 22nd    

Grade 2:                               Tuesday, May 27th 

Grade 3:                               Monday, June 2nd   

Grade 4:                               Tuesday, June 3rd 

Grade 5:                               Wednesday, June 4th 

Black Hawk Helicopter Landing-  As part of our school's Memorial Day observance, we are honored to provide a unique and meaningful experience for our students. On Friday, May 23rd, our fourth and fifth grade students will have the opportunity to witness the landing of a Blackhawk Helicopter on our school grounds.  Safety and supervision will be a top priority throughout the event, and we are excited to offer this powerful learning moment as part of our continued commitment to honoring our nation's heroes.

End of Year Carnivals will be held for our 5th grade students on Wednesday, May 28th and on  Thursday, May 29th for our 4th grade students. 

Moving Up Ceremony:  The day is quickly approaching when our 4th and 5th grade students will celebrate their moving up to Jackson Township 5-6 School. 

Our 5th grade students' celebration will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, June 13th and our 4th grade students' celebration will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m. also on Friday, June 13th.  Further details will follow.

The Jackson School District will be operating on a shortened day schedule on Monday, May 12th for students only.  Students will be dismissed at 1:40 p.m. on this day.

As we reflect on Memorial Day Weekend, please remember all our veterans and military heroes who continue to make sacrifices for our nation’s freedom!  Enjoy your three-day weekend with family and friends.  There will be a shortened day of school on Friday, May 23rd and school will be closed on Monday, May 26th in observance of Memorial Day.

Sincerely,

Michael Saulnier