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Orange Public Schools

Gerald Fitzhugh, II, Ed.D., Superintendent of Schools

Superintendent's Weekly Update | Week of October 23, 2026

Posted Date: 10/23/26 (09:34 AM)

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OCTOBER 23, 2026 | THE ORANGE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

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Good Day Orange Township Public School District Community,

I hope this communication finds you well and in good health and spirits.  It has certainly been a busy and productive few days across the Orange Public School District as we continue to build momentum and begin the new school year with purpose. There is much to celebrate, much to accomplish, and, as always, much to be grateful for.

I invite you to take a moment to sit back, relax, and enjoy reading this week’s update from the Office of the Superintendent. Within these pages, you will find highlights of the meaningful work taking place throughout our schools and the many ways our scholars and staff continue to move us forward.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support, partnership, and commitment to the success of our scholars and staff. Your support makes a difference, and together, we remain One Orange Strong.  In closing, I encourage each of you to have an exceptional weekend; rest, recharge, and embrace every moment on PURPOSE.
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A graphic featuring the 'District Mantra' with text about community, unity, and shared vision, accompanied by photos of students engaged in school activities.
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Weekly Updates

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LINCOLN | E-Z Ride Program at Lincoln Avenue School!

It was a wonderful morning at Lincoln Avenue School as our Panthers participated in EZ Ride’s Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day! Our students, staff, and families came together to enjoy a fun and active start to the school day while promoting healthy habits and pedestrian and bike safety. A very special THANK YOU to Officer Skulsky and the Orange Police Department for helping block and secure the streets so our students could walk, bike, and roll safely along our route. A special thank-you goes out to Ms. Stacey Martin (LAS crossing guard) for her dedication to safely crossing our students each day! This is what school, family, and community partnership looks like. Together, we are creating safer streets, healthier habits, and wonderful memories for our students.
 
A digital flyer reminding that Orange Public Schools are closed November 5-6 for the NJEA Convention.

REMINDER: Schools Closed November 5-6 for NJEA Convention

Families, as a reminder, the Orange School District will be closed for staff and students on Thursday, November 5th and Friday, November 6th.  The district will reopen at regular time on Monday, November 9, 2026. To those staff members traveling to Atlantic City, we extend traveling mercies to you. Remember to enjoy the experience. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.  
 
Promotional graphic for Orange Public Schools Parent University 5.0 featuring smiling participants and the district logo.

FREE: Register for Parent University 5.0!

Orange Public Schools is celebrating five incredible years of Parent University, and we’re just getting started! Join us for another exciting season of learning opportunities through our Health & Wellness, Adult Learning, Visual & Performing Arts, and Academic Support academies. Classes begin the week of October 19th. Register Today: https://canva.link/fall-2026-parent-university
 
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A large orange poster featuring silhouettes of a father and son, with handwritten goals and the text "WHAT DO YOU WANT TO ACCOMPLISH THIS SCHOOL YEAR?".
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DISTRICT | Successful Annual Father & Son Day!

Orange Public Schools' Father & Son Fun Day brought families together through fun! Orange High School was filled with excitement, laughter, and meaningful connections on Saturday, October 17, 2026, as the Orange Public Schools Father & Son Fun Day welcomed fathers, sons, mentors, and families for a memorable day of bonding and community engagement. Organized by the Office of Innovation and Community Engagement, under the leadership of Community Engagement Officer Barry Devone, the event provided opportunities for families to spend quality time together, build stronger relationships, and celebrate the important role that fathers and positive male role models play in the lives of young people.

The district extends its sincere appreciation to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gerald Fitzhugh II, Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Esq., Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and his staff, Orange Public Schools team members, community partners, members of the Divine Nine Fraternal Organizations, and the many families who attended and contributed to the day's success. Your support helped create an atmosphere that was welcoming, uplifting, and impactful for all who participated. 

Special recognition goes to OHS Assistant Principals Wayne Stackhouse and Imani Viney, OHS Soccer Coach Alphonse Prophete, Lincoln Avenue School Principal Gregory Sneed, Reggie Miller, Matthew Stevens, and New York Knicks Representative Thabiti Boone for their commitment and hard work in making the event possible. A crowd favorite was the authentic New York Knicks merchandise generously provided by Mr. Boone, which added even more excitement to an already outstanding day.

From shared experiences and friendly competition to moments of encouragement and celebration, Father & Son Fun Day showcased the strength of family and community partnerships. The event served as a powerful reminder that when families, schools, and community leaders come together, they help create positive and lasting memories for our students.
 
A group of children stand on a stage holding various flags in front of a screen reading, 'Central Elementary celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month.'
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A group of young students perform on a stage in front of a colorful projector screen that reads "Central Elementary School Unidos, Somos Más".
A group of diverse adults stand on a stage in front of a projection screen reading Central Elementary School Unidos Somos Mas.

CENTRAL | Celebrating Hispanic Culture & Leadership at CES!

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, CES hosted a breathtaking assembly celebrating the rich cultures, traditions, and heritage of Hispanic countries across the globe! A heartfelt thank you to our Hispanic Heritage Committee and our incredible Visual Arts Team for designing such a vibrant and inspiring event for our school community. We also took time to celebrate National Principals Month by showing extra love to our amazing leader, Ms. White! Thank you to our Sunshine Committee for presenting her with a beautiful bouquet of flowers to express our gratitude for everything she does for CES daily. Thank you to our Superintendent of Schools Dr. Fitzhugh for visiting during the performance! 
 
A group of students, teachers, and parents gather outside a red brick school for Park Avenue Walk to School Day.
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PARK + CLEVELAND | Safe Schools Program Participation!

Both Park Avenue and Cleveland Street schools had a wonderful Safe Routes to School event with our students, parents, and staff working together to promote safety and healthy habits in our school community! After the walk, we had a presentation led by EZ-ride representative Maldonado to educate our students on how to walk and bike safely, including following traffic signals, using crosswalks, wearing helmets, and being aware of their surroundings. Thank you to our parents, students, and staff for participating and helping us promote safer routes to and from school! Together, we can make a difference. 

 
A group of women gather around information tables decorated in pink for an awareness event, with a baby sleeping in a stroller nearby.

OECC | Breast Cancer Awareness Program

OECC staff demonstrated their commitment to the well-being of our school community by sharing valuable breast cancer awareness information with our families. Through education and advocacy, they empowered families with the knowledge to recognize potential warning signs, understand the importance of early detection, and make informed decisions about their health. These efforts foster a stronger community rooted in awareness, support, and hope, reminding us that knowledge can save lives.

 
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CLEVELAND | Incentive Program Enjoys the Game Truck!

The Incentive Program was a day full of excitement, fun, and joy! Our students worked hard, stayed motivated, and looked forward to celebrating their accomplishments with our Game Truck Incentive! The smiles, laughter, and energy were unmatched as the students enjoyed an exciting gaming experience with their friends. Their excitement was contagious, and it was wonderful to see them rewarded for their hard work and positive efforts!
 
Two promotional flyers for 2026-2027 preschool registration in Orange, NJ, surrounded by crayons and drawings.

🔥 REGISTER | Free Pre-Kindergarten Registation Is OPEN!

Help Us Spread the Word — Preschool Registration is Open! 

Dear Orange Public Schools Families,
Do you know a family with a child who may be ready for preschool? Please share this information with them! Orange Public Schools’ Preschool Registration for the 2026–2027 school year is still open for Orange residents:

October: 7, 14, 21, & 28
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Orange Early Childhood Center
397 Park Avenue, Orange, NJ

Children must be 3 years old by October 1, 2026, to begin preschool.

Our preschool program includes breakfast and lunch, Creative Curriculum, special needs and ELL services, certified trained staff, and much more!

Know someone who may be interested? Please share this with family members, friends, neighbors, or anyone you know who has a preschool-aged child living in Orange!
 
Three promotional flyers in English, Haitian Creole, and Spanish announce the Fall 2026 Orange Public Schools PTO Retreat.

🔥 EVENT | Fall PTO Retreat - October 24th!

Save the Date: Orange Public Schools Fall 2026 PTO Retreat! Join families from across Orange Public Schools for an engaging and informative morning focused on family engagement, collaboration, and student success:

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Orange Preparatory Academy of Inquiry and Innovation (400 Lincoln Avenue)

• Special guest speakers
• Networking with district parents
• Translation assistance
• Childcare provided
• Lunch provided
• Free raffles and giveaways

All parents are encouraged to attend. Together, we can strengthen partnerships, support our students, and build a stronger school community. Register today: https://bit.ly/4zhkqJ5
 
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OHS | Career & Technical Education Newsletter

As we open the doors to the 2026–2027 school year, Orange High School is excited to welcome our students, families, and community back to another year of growth and opportunity in our Career and Technical Education (CTE) and NJROTC programs. Building on last year's outstanding accomplishments, from industry recognized certifications and college credits to business pitch competitions, culinary showcases, and real world client projects, our students are ready to aim even higher.
 

Parent Info

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LUNCH MENUS

Lunch Menus are posted and always available on the district website.  You may review them by visiting the meal planner: Lunch Menus
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SCHOOL CALENDARS

October calendars are posted on each school’s website! Stay in the know and adding important events to your personal calendar.  
 

Arrival and Departure Times

Following are the School Year Arrival and Departure Times for Staff and Students 2026-2027 School Year: 
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District Goals
Strategic Plan
District Calendars
Parent Hub
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