February 20, 2026
Dear Linden Families,
We are aware of recent public reporting referencing an individual formerly associated with a private equity firm connected to Lifetouchโs parent company, and we understand that this has raised questions within our community. I have been in direct communication with the districtโs Lifetouch representative. Based on the clarification shared with the district, there is no student safety concern related to our districtโs use of Lifetouch photography services.
Lifetouch has reaffirmed that student images are used solely for school records and optional parent purchases, are never shared, sold, or licensed to third parties, including for AI or facial recognition purposes, and are protected in compliance with all applicable federal and state privacy laws, including FERPA. As always, the safety, privacy, and well-being of our students remain our highest priorities.
Attached you will find Lifetouchโs public statement on this matter, along with additional information outlining how the company safeguards student data and images.
With Purpose,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools



โHelp Others Win.โ
This winter, Linden High School students are stepping up to make a difference โ one pair at a time.
We are collecting packs of NEW socks to support local shelters and community organizations. A simple donation can provide warmth, dignity, and comfort to someone in need.
This powerful service initiative is led by the LHS Chick-fil-A Leader Academy Club in partnership with:
Black American Culture Club (B.L.A.C.C.)
I Am Beautiful (IAB)
Bible Club
Brothers Break Bread
National Honor Society
How to Donate:
Please give your sock donations to any member of the clubs listed above or to: Ms. Davis | Mrs. Mannuzza | Mrs. Patterson | Mrs. Carter-Blocker | Ms. Smith-Mabry | Ms. Todd | Nurse Jacobs | Mr. McGhee | Mrs. Mohan | Mr. Mangel
Donations accepted through February 27, 2026
Letโs show what Tiger leadership looks like in action.
Letโs serve. Letโs care. Letโs help others win.

Families are invited to attend FREE virtual information sessions about the new NJSLA-A (New Jersey Student Learning AssessmentโAdaptive) and NJGPA-A (New Jersey Graduation Proficiency AssessmentโAdaptive).
Hosted by the New Jersey Department of Education and Cambium Assessment, these sessions will explain:
โ๏ธ Why New Jersey gives statewide assessments
โ๏ธ How adaptive testing works
โ๏ธ Whatโs new with NJSLA-A and NJGPA-A
โ๏ธ How these assessments support students and families
๐ Session Options (Virtual on Zoom):
โข Thurs., March 5 | 9:00โ11:00 AM
โข Thurs., March 5 | 6:00โ8:00 PM
โข Fri., March 6 | 9:00โ11:00 AM
โข Fri., March 6 | 1:00โ3:00 PM
๐ Registration required by Feb. 27, 2026
Sign up at: nj.portal.cambiumast.com/families.html
๐ Questions? Contact CAI Help Desk:
1-855-616-5600 | NJHelpDesk@cambiumassessment.com
All sessions are free and open to families. Recordings will be available for those unable to attend.

Reading & Games Night at Soehl!

๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, ๐
๐๐. ๐๐ | ๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐
๐ Register here:
https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
๐๐ฏ๐จ๐ข๐๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ญ๐ซ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ๐ฌ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ง๐ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐๐ข๐ญ๐ฎ๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ
๐๐๐ฅ๐ฉ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ญ๐๐ฒ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ง๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐
Join Linden Public Schools for a live virtual event series designed to empower families with the tools they need to keep children safe, confident, and informed online.
February 17
Join us to learn:
โข The dangers of talking with strangers online
โข How to recognize red flags of online predators and risky situations
โข Practical, real-world steps to help your child stay safe and happy online
Bonus: Register for a chance to win a Kindle!
๐ Register here:
https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
Presented in partnership with SmartSocial.com

Looking for an active and fun way for your child to spend Presidentsโ Day? Join the Linden United Soccer Club for a Soccer Clinic on Monday, February 16 at the Rahway YMCA!
Location: 1564 Irving St., Rahway, NJ 07065
Clinic Schedule & Details
Ages 4โ6
9:00 AM โ 10:30 AM
๐ฒ $30
โข Ball mastery
โข Motor skills
โข Social skills
Ages 7โ14
9:00 AM โ 12:00 PM
๐ฒ $75
โข Skill development
โข Confidence building
โข Game fundamentals
๐ Register Today!
Phone: 908-943-8708
๐ง Email: lindenunitedsoccerclub@gmail.com
โฝ Whether your child is just starting out or ready to sharpen their skills, this clinic is a great way to learn, grow, and have fun on the field!

Join Superintendent Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins on Wednesday, February 18, for Tiger Talks: Workshop 2 โ Your Childโs Success from 6:00โ8:00 PM at McManus Middle School.
This interactive session will help families navigate district programs and pathways, gain a deeper understanding of academic offerings, and hear directly from parent leaders who are already making a positive impact in our schools. Itโs an evening centered on conversation, connection, and collaborationโbecause student success grows when schools and families work together.
Registration is required:
Scan the QR Code or use the link below
๐ https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdecekzLTvEe17xq7oV6svQStPxukWgWZC2z4Ux3ioygy7YXA/viewform
We look forward to seeing you and continuing the conversationโthereโs so much more to come this school year.

Join Mayor Derek Armstead, the City of Linden, the Linden Cultural & Heritage Committee, and the Department of Parks & Recreation for a powerful Black History Month celebration highlighting the legacy and impact of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs), Greek Life, and Black excellence.
Linden Multipurpose Center
1025 John Street, Linden, NJ
Saturday, February 7, 2026, 2-5:00 PM
๐ถ Featuring:
โข HBCU history & cultural exploration
โข The Divine Nine Black Greek Lettered Organizations
โข Step Show / Stroll Finale
โข Live performances by Dri Bluch, Amari Rebel & The Movement
โข Cultural strategist, musician & filmmaker Binari Johnson, PhD
โข Light refreshments
๐ More info: Linden Department of Parks & Recreation โ 908-474-8600
๐ง lindenrec@linden-nj.gov

Dear Linden Families,
We're entering February with strong momentum. Despite recent snowstorms testing our rhythm, our community continues to ROAR with resilience. As we close School Board Recognition Month, thank you again to our Board of Education for their commitment to our students and families.
Black History Month begins with students engaging in poetry contests, assemblies, historical reenactments, and classroom celebrations. February 12 marks our 100th day of schoolโa milestone to celebrate growth happening in every classroom.
February Highlights
โข Feb 3โ7: National School Counseling Appreciation Week
โข Feb 4: Tiger Pride Wellness Day (half-day with lunch served, staff professional development)
โข Feb 4: World Read Aloud Day โ theme: "Celebrate Learning."
โข Feb 4: Board President Community Meeting, 6:30 PM (virtual option available) โ continues the first Wednesday of the month, held at the Administration Building, 2. E. Gibbons Street. Please refer to the flyer sent and sign up on the registration link.
โข Feb 4: Middle & High School Report Cards available in the Genesis portal
โข Feb 12: National Crossing Guard Awareness Day
Elementary Progress Reports were sent home on January 28 โ please review them and contact teachers with any questions.
Parent Safety Alert: Join Smart Socialโs virtual series "Avoiding Strangers & Dangerous Situations: Helping Your Child Stay Safe Online" on Feb 10, 17, and 24. Register for practical tools to protect your child online and enter to win an Amazon Kindle: smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
Thank you for your partnership. Together, we're building a community where every student thrives.
Take care,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools

๐๐จ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐๐๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ | ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ญ ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ข๐ง๐๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง
๐๐๐๐ง๐๐ฌ๐๐๐ฒ, ๐
๐๐๐ซ๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐, ๐๐๐๐, ๐:๐๐ ๐๐
The Linden Board of Education invites you to ๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐๐ก๐จ๐ฆ๐๐ฌ, ๐๐จ๐๐ซ๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐ฌ๐ข๐๐๐ง๐ญ, for ๐๐๐๐ข๐๐ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฌ โ an open, welcoming opportunity to connect, share your thoughts, and help shape our districtโs educational journey.
๐๐จ๐ง๐๐ข๐ซ๐ฆ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ญ๐ญ๐๐ง๐๐๐ง๐๐: Scan the QR code or click here
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxWDrdqIpbcsMl5eOD3Cl6mEnWkkkOocVCKNuHIqllEJSjpA/viewform
Attend your way:
โข ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐: Malaysia Thomas WebEx
https://lindenps.webex.com/meet/mthomas1
โข ๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐: Administration Building
2 E. Gibbons Street
Office Hours continue the first Wednesday of every month.
Your voice matters. Join the conversation.
#LindenBOE #DistrictDistinction #CommunityVoice #BoardPresidentOfficeHours

Dear Linden Families,
Due to the inclement weather conditions, all Linden Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed opening on Thursday, January 29, 2026
See the attached table with the start times for each school.
โข Busses will operate two hours from the original pick-up time.
โข There is no before care when there is a delayed opening.
โข Parents and Guardians of Union County Vocational-Technical Schools refer to the (UCVTS) Transportation in Inclement Weather form.
We will continue to monitor conditions closely and share an additional update regarding school operations for the remainder of the week once post-storm conditions and safety considerations are clearer. Weather-related updates will be shared via:
โข District notifications (email, phone, and text)
โข www.lindenps.org
โข Linden Public Schools social media platforms
Remain safe and be well,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools

Date: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
๐ Time: 4:00 PM โ 8:00 PM
Location: Chick-fil-A Linden
900 W. Edgar Road, Linden, NJ 07036
โ How to Participate:
1๏ธโฃ Open the Chick-fil-A App
2๏ธโฃ Place a mobile order from the Linden location
3๏ธโฃ At checkout, select "Linden High School Leader Academy" as your cause!
A portion of your order will directly support our student leaders as they grow in service, impact, and leadership!

Delayed Opening Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Dear Linden Families,
Due to the inclement weather conditions, all Linden Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed opening on Tuesday, January 27, 2026
See the attached table with the start times for each school.
โข Busses will operate two hours from the original pick-up time.
โข There is no before care when there is a delayed opening.
โข Parents and Guardians of Union County Vocational-Technical Schools refer to the (UCVTS) Transportation in Inclement Weather form.
We will continue to monitor conditions closely and share an additional update regarding school operations for the remainder of the week once post-storm conditions and safety considerations are clearer.
Weather-related updates will be shared via:
โข District notifications (email, phone, and text)
โข www.lindenps.org
โข Linden Public Schools social media platforms
Remain safe and be well,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools


January 23, 2026
Dear Linden Families,
As our community prepares for the snowstorm expected this weekend, I want to reassure you that we are closely monitoring conditions. The safety of our students, staff, and families remains our highest priority. Please make sure your phone numbers and emergency contacts are up to date in the Genesis Parent Portal. Timely communication is essential during weather events.
I am tracking forecasts and remain in regular communication with the City of Linden Office of Emergency Management, the National Weather Service, district security and maintenance teams, and city partners. Decisions are guided by real-time updates on road conditions, building access, bus routes, and safe transportation. District crews, in coordination with the Linden Department of Public Works, are working to ensure safe access to buses and school buildings.
Families will receive weather-related updates through the following channels:
โข District Notification System: Email, Telephone, and Text Message
โข Linden Public Schools Website: www.lindenps.org
โข Linden Public Schools Social Media Platforms
Please keep the following in mind:
โข If schools are closed, before- and after-care programs and 21st Century programs will also be closed.
โข If schools have a delayed opening, these programs will follow the same delay.
โข Union County Vocational-Technical Schools operate on a separate schedule; families of students attending UCVTS will receive communication directly from that school.
โข PreK 3 and PreK 4 students attending external providers should follow Linden Public Schools' delays, dismissals, or closings.
As the storm approaches, I encourage families to take simple precautions:
โข Prepare for winter weather and limit unnecessary travel
โข Ensure students are dressed warmly
โข Use caution on roads, sidewalks, and driveways
โข Check in on elderly neighbors and family members
Upcoming Academic Dates
โข Wednesday, January 28: Elementary Progress Reports published in Genesis
โข Thursday, January 29: Secondary 2nd marking period ends
โข Friday, January 30: Secondary 3rd marking period begins
โข Wednesday, February 4: Secondary 2nd marking period grades published in Gene
Winter weather often means more time indoorsโand more time online. Join an upcoming district livestream with our parent engagement partner, Smart Social, to help students build a positive digital footprint. SHINE ONLINE: Help Your Child Build a Positive Online Footprint ๐ January 27 Register for a chance to win an Amazon Kindle ๐ https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
Thank you for your continued partnership and care for one another. Linden is a strong, connected community, and we will continue to communicate clearly as the weekend unfolds. Please stay safe and warm and look for district updates on Sunday afternoon.
With care,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools

๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐จ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ข๐๐ฅ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ ๐๐๐ฉ๐จ๐ซ๐ญ๐๐
Dear Linden Public Schools Families, Students, and Staff,
We are aware of a false social media post circulating that claims Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will be present at Linden High School.
๐๐๐๐จ ๐๐ฃ๐๐ค๐ง๐ข๐๐ฉ๐๐ค๐ฃ ๐๐จ ๐ฃ๐ค๐ฉ ๐ฉ๐ง๐ช๐..
At this time, Linden Public Schools has received no specific or credible communication indicating any planned ICE activity at Linden High School or at any district location.
Despite the misinformation circulating online, students are expected to attend school as scheduled. All schools will operate normally, and instructional programs will continue without interruption.
We recognize that misinformation of this nature can cause fear and anxiety, particularly for students and families for whom immigration-related issues are deeply personal. Please know that the safety, dignity, and emotional well-being of every child we serve remain our highest priorities.
The District administration, faculty, and staff work in close alignment with our local partners and have clear procedures and protocols in place to protect all students every day. We will continue to protect your children as if they were our own.
If any school were to receive an inquiry regarding the immigration status of a student or family, district procedures require immediate referral to the Superintendent of Schools and legal counsel to review any documentation that may be presented. School officials are not authorized to comply with such requests.
Additionally, the District has detailed procedures, developed in concert with our local partners, to address any virtual or in-person inquiries involving district children. We are committed to ensuring that all academic activities remain uninterrupted and that our schools continue to be caring, supportive, and secure environments. Our students depend on the educators in their lives for stability, and we take that responsibility seriously.
We also want to be clear that the spread of unverified or false information, especially on sensitive topics, can cause real harm and unnecessary distress. We are addressing this matter appropriately.
If your child expresses anxiety, fear, or concern, we encourage you to notify your childโs principal, school counselor, and/or teacher so we can provide appropriate support.
Please continue to rely on official district communications for accurate information. Thank you for your trust, your calm, and your continued partnership as we work together to support every student and family in our community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Linden Families,
Welcome back, and Happy New Year!
We have started the new year strongโand we are doing it together. I want to welcome back our incredible educators and staff who returned refreshed and ready to invest in our students. I am pleased to share that the Superintendent's Student Leadership Team (SSLT) has developed wellness quotes to be shared during daily morning announcements, supporting authentic student voice, peer leadership, and mental health awareness. This student-led initiative is made possible by the teachers and advisors who guide, mentor, and empower our young leaders to use their voices meaningfully.
Why Attendance Matters
Our district's year-to-date attendance has increased from 92.36% to 92.56%โa 0.2% improvement that reflects families and students showing up. Every day a student is present strengthens learning, builds routines, and deepens connections. Thank you for continuing to make showing up a priority.
Letโs Talk Digital Footprints
What your child does online today can shape opportunities tomorrow. We encourage parents to sign up for an upcoming district livestream with our parent engagement partner, Smart Social, focused on helping students build a positive digital footprint. ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฉ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ง๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ ๐จ๐จ๐ญ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ญ, January 20 & 27. Learn how to guide your childโs online presence, understand long-term impacts, and help them reflect on their values and strengths online. Register for a chance to win an Amazon Kindle! ๐ https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
NJGPA Results Available in Genesis
Individual Student Reports for the NJGPA 11th-grade results have been uploaded and are available in the Documents section of the Genesis Parent Portal. Please reach out to school counselors or administrators with any questions.
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
In observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.โs birthday, schools will be closed Monday, Jan. 19, as we pause to reflect on his enduring legacy of service, justice, and hopeโvalues that continue to guide our district.
School Board Recognition Month
January is School Board Recognition Month. We welcome Phil Campo and Craig Halloran, congratulate Brianna Armstead on her reappointment, and welcome Malaysia Thomas as Board President. We are grateful for the commitment and guidance our Board brings to Linden Public Schools.
Thank you for your trust, partnership, and continued support. Here's to a strong, inspired ROAR for 2026.
Take care,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Dr. Atiya Y. PerkinsSuperintendent of Schools

LIVE VIRTUAL EVENT...
๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ง๐จ๐ฐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐ฃ๐จ๐ข๐ง ๐ฎ๐ฌ ๐ญ๐จ๐ง๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ:
๐ https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
Parents, letโs talk digital footprints.
Your childโs online presence mattersโand when guided the right way, it can open doors.
Linden Public Schools invites you to:
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐: ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฉ ๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐๐ก๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ ๐๐จ๐ฌ๐ข๐ญ๐ข๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ง๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐ ๐ ๐จ๐จ๐ญ๐ฉ๐ซ๐ข๐ง๐ญ
Tonight at 7:00 PM
(Part of our January 13, 20 & 27 parent series)
Youโll learn how to:
โ๏ธ Understand the long-term impact of online activity
โ๏ธ Navigate the platforms shaping your childโs future
โ๏ธ Help your child reflect their values, talents, and strengths online
Register for a chance to WIN an Amazon Kindle!
#ShineOnline #DigitalFootprint #ParentUniversity #LindenPublicSchools #OnlineSafety

Linden Public Schools invites parents and guardians to an important Parent University session focused on Substance Use in Youthโwhat parents need to know, recognize, and do.
-- January 21, 2026
-- 6:00 p.m.
-- School No. 8 Cafeteria
500 West Blancke Street, Linden, NJ
โก๏ธ Enter on Spruce Street
Open to all parents and guardians of Linden Public Schools students.
๐ For more information, contact Mr. Ryan Devaney at 908-486-2800 ext. 80040.
Together, we can stay informed, proactive, and supportive.

๐๐๐ง๐ฎ๐๐ซ๐ฒ ๐๐, ๐๐ & ๐๐
Dear Parents,
Youโve heard that what your child posts online can follow them into college and future careers. However, as the new year begins, now is an ideal time to learn how to help your child build a digital footprint that can overcome any blunders and truly represents who they are and where theyโre headed.
Please consider attending one of the๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ฏ๐๐ง๐ญ๐ฌ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฅ๐๐ โ๐๐ก๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐ง๐ฅ๐ข๐ง๐,โ (Students are welcome!): REGISTER NOW -- ๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ก๐๐ซ๐:
https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
Learnโฆ.the positive and negative impact of your child's online presence
The key content, platforms, and insights that make the most positive impact online
The 3-step plan to help our child Shine Onlineโข๏ธ for future colleges and employers
Just for participating, youโll be entered for a chance to win an Amazon Kindle or 3D printer!
Choose the event that works best for you! (Register and youโll get an instant replay after the event in case you miss it!)
Tues., Jan. 13: Register now!
Tues., Jan. 20: Register now!
Tues., Jan. 27: Register now!
๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐๐จ๐ซ ๐ ๐๐ก๐๐ง๐๐ ๐ญ๐จ ๐๐๐ ๐๐ง ๐๐ฆ๐๐ณ๐จ๐ง ๐๐ข๐ง๐๐ฅ๐!
๐๐๐ ๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐๐ซ ๐ก๐๐ซ๐:
https://smartsocial.com/events?org=lindenpublicschools
BONUS EVENTS:
โAvoiding Strangers & Dangerous Situationsโ
Thurs. Jan. 15th: Register Now!
โ7 Quick Tips for Healthier Screen Timeโ
Thurs. Jan. 22nd: Register Now!


Does your child have health insurance? If not, we invite you to join us for a special NJ FamilyCare Enrollment Event on January 27th, 2026. This event is designed to provide hands-on assistance to help you enroll your children in affordable healthcare coverage.
Event Details:
Date: January 27th, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM โ 8:00 PM
Location: PDRC, 100 Edgewood Rd. Linden
What to Bring:
To complete the enrollment process, please bring the following documents:
- Photo ID
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- Proof of Income
- Permanent Resident Card or U.S. Citizenship Certificate
Important Information regarding Immigration Status:
We want to ensure all families feel welcome. If your child is undocumented, a Social Security Card or any immigration status documents are not required for enrollment.
For more information regarding NJ FamilyCare prior to the event, you can call 1-800-701-0710 (TTY: 711).
We look forward to seeing you there and helping our students stay healthy and ready to learn!
Linden Public Schools


