LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ (Sept. 10) — Classrooms are buzzing. Routines are taking hold. Just over a week after students returned Sept. 2, the first-day excitement across Linden Public Schools is giving way to the steady rhythm of learning, reconnecting and settling into a new school year.

A Fresh Start Across Linden

The district’s 6,330 students began the year across one of New Jersey’s most diverse school districts, filling hallways with new backpacks, familiar faces and the unmistakable energy of a fresh start.

Fall Athletics Bring the Community Together

Fall varsity athletics are also underway. Football and soccer teams are taking the field, bringing students, families and community members together to support Linden’s student-athletes.

District Leaders Welcome Students and Staff

During the first two days of school, Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y Perkins and members of her leadership team visited every district building. They welcomed students and connected with the people who keep each school day moving: teachers, administrators, paraprofessionals, custodians, support staff and crossing guards.

The visits underscored a straightforward message: Every person matters. Every role matters.

Building Strong Foundations for the Future

This year’s district theme, “Back to the Basics with a Future-Focused Vision,” places reading and writing at the center of instruction while continuing to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

That commitment comes to life through ROAR: Resilience, Opportunities, Achievement and Relationships. Families are also encouraged to embrace #LPS_ShowUpAndROAR, a reminder that consistent attendance supports student growth, engagement and achievement.

Policies Support Learning and School Culture

The new school year marks the second year of the district’s Student Dress and Grooming Policy, along with the launch of a new bell-to-bell personal device policy.

Under the new policy, students may not use personal internet-enabled devices from the opening bell through dismissal, including during lunch and passing periods, unless an approved exception applies. School-issued technology remains available for instructional use under staff direction.

Ready to ROAR

With the opening days behind them, Linden’s schools are moving ahead with purpose. Relationships are growing. Routines are strengthening. Classrooms are becoming places where students can focus, participate and thrive.

The first bells have rung. The work has begun.

And Linden Public Schools is ready to ROAR