Linden High School Recognizes Nearly 500 Students for Excellence and Attendance

Marking Period 2 breakfast ceremonies celebrate discipline and academic achievement

LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ — Nearly 500 Linden High School students were recognized this week (March 10-11) for their academic success and commitment to attending school every day during Marking Period 2, with school leaders praising students for their discipline and determination.

Students were honored across two breakfast recognition ceremonies in the school cafeteria, where Principal’s Honor Roll recipients were celebrated Tuesday, March 10, and students with perfect attendance were recognized Wednesday, March 11. Many students earned recognition for both achievements.

During the ceremonies, students received certificates from Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins and Principal Charles Koonce, who commended them for the effort, focus, and consistency required to reach those milestones. Afterward, the honorees gathered at cafeteria tables to enjoy a special breakfast prepared in their honor.

Believing in Your Potential

Addressing the students who earned straight A’s, Superintendent Perkins reminded them that academic success begins with confidence and belief in one’s abilities.

“I want you to know that I see you,” Perkins told the students as she walked through the cafeteria greeting tables. “Straight A’s are a testament to you believing in yourself. If that mindset is what got you here today, then keep it up because we see you and we are proud of you.”

She encouraged students to continue striving for excellence and to recognize the potential they carry within themselves.

“But I challenge you to see yourselves,” Perkins said. “Own who you are and take it to the next level. That’s what ROAR is about – Resilience, Opportunities, Achievement and Relationships.”

A Culture Built on Showing Up

On the second day of recognition, Principal Koonce addressed students who achieved perfect attendance during the marking period, emphasizing that success often begins with a simple habit.

“We are here to honor you for your outstanding achievement in perfect attendance,” Koonce said. “We’re celebrating you with breakfast and certificates because showing up every day on time, ready to work, is not easy.”

Koonce reminded students that attendance forms the foundation for academic progress.

“Everything starts with attendance,” he told them. “If you are not here, you cannot be successful. Perfect attendance shows commitment. It shows discipline, fortitude, and the determination to overcome challenges and still show up ready to learn.”

For many students, the moment carried added significance, as some had already been recognized the previous day for earning Principal’s Honor Roll. “I am very thankful and very proud of all of you,” Koonce said.

Recognizing the Effort Behind the Celebration

Koonce also acknowledged the staff members who helped organize the recognition ceremonies. He thanked the Pomptonian Dining staff for preparing the breakfast and recognized the efforts of the guidance department, school social workers, vice principals, along with Lakhia Carter-Blocker and and her team, who coordinated the event and prepared student certificates.

“This takes serious commitment and a disciplined mind,” Koonce said. “That is the culture we are building here at Linden High School. Showing up every day on time and ready to work.”