LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Soehl Middle School’s Reading and Games Night Celebrates Literacy and Community

LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ — Families, students, and community leaders gathered at Joseph E. Soehl Middle School on February 20 for the school’s first-ever Reading and Games Night, an evening dedicated to celebrating literacy, learning, and family engagement.

Held from 6 to 8 p.m., the free event brought together families from across the district for a lively night of reading activities, board games, and friendly competitions designed to make literacy both fun and interactive. Students explored books, challenged friends and family members to games, and shared in an atmosphere filled with laughter and connection.

Organized with support from the Linden Education Association and members of The Fraternity Men’s Group, the event aimed to create a welcoming space where families could spend time together while reinforcing the importance of reading.

School counselor Eric Stanley said students and their families from across the district participated in fun activities, games, and contests during a night that truly embodied the power of reading and community.

The evening also drew the support of district leadership. Board of Education members Brianna Armstead and Malaysia Thomas attended the event, joining families in celebrating a program that highlighted Linden Public Schools’ commitment to literacy and meaningful family engagement.

By the end of the night, the success of the gathering was clear. Books were shared, new friendships were formed, and families left with a renewed appreciation for the simple but powerful joy of reading together.

Organizers expressed gratitude to the families and community members who attended, noting that the strong turnout made the school’s first Reading and Games Night a memorable and meaningful experience for all involved.