LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

June 24, 2025 SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE: A Special Meeting of the Linden Board of Education will be held virtually on Monday afternoon, June 30, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with an in-person option at the Administration Building, 2 East Gibbons Street, Linden, NJ. Agenda: Attorney, Education, Personnel, Finance, Buildings & Grounds, Planning & Policy (Action may be taken) “The Board reserves the right to go into Executive Session during this meeting.”

Dear Linden Families, As we enter the final week of the 2024-2025 school year, our district has an unmistakable energy of celebration and accomplishment. This week marks a series of meaningful milestones that honor the growth and achievements of our students at every level. Monday, June 9, brings us the joy of our PreK Moving Up Celebrations. Watching our youngest learners take this important step forward reminds us that every educational journey begins with curiosity, wonder, and the support of caring educators and families. Also, on Monday, June 9, we will celebrate our NJROTC Awards Night and Cadet Change of Command Ceremony, where we will recognize our Naval Junior ROTC cadets' outstanding leadership, dedication, and service. This ceremony represents the proud leadership development and citizenship tradition that our NJROTC program instills in our students. Wednesday, June 11, continues with our Kindergarten Moving Up Celebration, recognizing students who have made tremendous strides in their foundational learning. Friday, June 13, honors our 5th Grade Moving Up Celebration as these students transition to middle school. From my experience as a middle school principal, I have witnessed students push through their initial fears to excel. They come in needing a babysitter and leave being a babysitter, signifying the tremendous growth they will make. Our Linden High School students are in their final sprint, with Final Exams from June 11-16. Please note the early dismissal schedule without lunch during exam days, as our seniors and underclassmen demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the year. We expect them to R.O.A.R. As we approach Flag Day on Saturday, June 14, I am reminded of the significance of this day in honoring our American flag and commemorating its adoption in 1777. As the wife of a Navy veteran, I sincerely appreciate what our flag represents—the freedom, sacrifice, and service of those who have defended it. This is a meaningful time to reflect on the values our flag embodies and to teach our students about patriotism and respect for our nation. This week represents more than just ceremonies and exams. It is a testament to our students' dedication, our educators' commitment, and the support of our families and community. Every moving-up celebration tells a story of growth, perseverance, and the power of quality education. Enjoy these celebrations. They are well-earned moments of pride for our entire district. Take care, Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools

𝟒𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐥𝐥-𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭! 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐜𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐌𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐝𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫. 𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐰. 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤. 🎵 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 & 𝐇𝐒 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝟔:𝟑𝟎 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐜𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐌𝐒. 🎵 𝐌𝐒 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬: 𝟔:𝟒𝟓 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐜𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐌𝐒.

Superintendent's Spotlight Message - 05/14/2025. Dear Linden Families, We have exciting news to share about an important change. Starting with the 2025-2026 school year, the Linden Board of Education has adopted a school-level dress code policy - District Policy #5511 (Student Dress and Grooming). You can find the complete policy on our district website at https://www.straussesmay.com/seportal/Public/DistrictPolicy.aspx?policyid=5511&id=5b6aee7514964a8c9ff390499621a6ab. Paper copies are also available at your student's school. The Board of Education has approved for all students to receive four shirts at no cost (2 short-sleeve and two long-sleeve) for the 2025-2026 school year. Parents must select their student's shirt size through our Genesis Portal beginning May 15. The shirts will be delivered to your student's school placement for the next year in August, and schools will announce specific pickup days. Please note that any additional uniform items will be the responsibility of parents/guardians. If your family is experiencing economic hardship, please contact your student's principal, as provisions have been made to help. Families requesting exemptions for religious or other reasons must submit their request to their school principal in writing. If granted an exemption, students will not face academic penalties or discrimination. The ordering period runs from Thursday, May 15, through May 27, 2025. Orders placed during this window will be ready for pickup in August, ensuring students are prepared for the first day of school. How to Order: Option 1 – Online (Preferred Method) · Visit www.lindenps.org. · Click “Parent Portal” in the top right corner. · Log in using your full email and password (Need help? Email genesissupport@lindenps.org). · Complete the uniform order form. Option 2 – Paper Form. · Available at all school offices. · Return completed forms to your students’ school by May 27. Need Help? We are here for you. 📧 Email: uniformsupport@lindenps.org 📞 Call: Patience Smith at (908) 486-2800 x80013. Required Uniform (Grades PreK–12). Tops. · Solid black or navy-blue polo shirts (short or long sleeves). · Must be free of logos, designs, or graphics unless it is the official district branding. · Undershirts/layering must be white, black, or navy only. Bottoms. · Khaki pants, shorts, skirts, skorts, or jumpers. · Skirts, skorts, and shorts must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee. · Not permitted: jeans, denim, jeggings, leggings (unless under skirts), or cargo pants. Outerwear (Indoors). · Sweaters, cardigans, vests, or sweatshirts in black or navy blue. · Must be free of logos, designs, or graphics unless it is the official district branding. · Hoods must remain down inside the building. Footwear. · Closed-toe shoes or sneakers must be worn at all times. · Not permitted: slippers, slides, flip-flops, high heels over 2 inches. · Any footwear that does not have a back-support strap. Physical Education Days. · On days when students have physical education: · Students may wear school-branded or solid black/navy sweatpants and T-shirts. · PE attire must be modest, safe, and conform to school expectations. Refer to Policy #5511 (Student Dress and Grooming) to learn what students may not wear. Thank you for your continued partnership. Let’s make this transition a success—together. Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools. Linden Public School District

Superintendent's Spotlight Message - 05/04/2025. Dear Linden Families, This week, we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week (Monday-Friday), honoring individuals who create remarkable learning environments for our students. Our gratitude goes to each staff member for their commitment to excellence aligned with our district goals. In alignment with our district vision, our teachers have also developed respect for diversity through their preparation for our students to be productive global citizens. Also, our teachers have embodied our district’s mission through their dedication to ensure that each student achieves their maximum potential through inspirational guidance and instructional excellence. Happy Teacher Appreciation Week. Last week, during our celebration of seniors on College Decision Day, May 1, our implementation of interventions for achievement was visible. Throughout the school year, our staff have focused on our students’ diverse learning needs and helped them with their chosen 3E pathways: College, Enlistment, and Employment. Students were reminded that what truly matters is not where they go but what they do when they get there. To build on our home-school connection and fulfill our R.O.A.R. principles, let us continue to promote our interconnectedness of our shared purpose, encourage our students to measure success through their actions, and remind them that their paths are uniquely carved out for them. Our district understands the value that our caring Nurses bring to our schools. They will be recognized on Tuesday, May 6, for National Nurses Day. To our Nurses, thank you for the essential healthcare support you provide that enables our students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Your compassionate care exemplifies our district’s mission to promote distinction through our commitment to excellence. Wednesday, May 7, is our In-Service Day, with a ½ day dismissal. Lunch will be served. This coincides with Tiger Wellness Wednesday, focusing on social-emotional wellness for our entire district community to demonstrate our focus on wellness. Please wear Tiger Pride clothing on Wednesday to show our R.O.A.R. spirit as we continue promoting the academic, social, and mental well-being that transforms educational outcomes for our students. On behalf of the Board of Education, they extend their sincere appreciation to all our educators during Teacher Appreciation Week, our school nurses on National Nurses Day, and our entire staff for their continuous dedication to academic excellence and student well-being that guide our educational community. Take care, Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins. Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools.

Superintendent's Spotlight Message 04/16/2025. Dear Linden Families, Spring is in full swing—and so is our Tiger momentum. Please note that Spring Recess begins tomorrow, Thursday, April 17, with a half-day for students, and no lunch served. We look forward to welcoming everyone back, recharged, refreshed, and ready to finish the school year strong, on Monday, April 28. Districtwide testing begins Tuesday, April 29, at the high school, with assessments continuing into May for all grade levels. While school may be out, our gratitude continues to grow. During National Volunteer Week, we recognize the many volunteers, especially our parents, who uplift our schools through their time, talents, and commitment. From classroom help and PTA leadership to field trip chaperones and event support, your involvement makes a powerful impact on our students and staff. Thank you for being the roots of our success. Throughout April, we proudly celebrate Autism Acceptance Month, which began with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. In Linden, we are committed to fostering a culture of empathy, inclusion, and understanding—this month and every month. From classroom discussions to district-wide initiatives, we continue to recognize the unique brilliance of every learner. In Linden, spring isn’t just a season—it’s a spirit. A spirit of growth, giving, leadership, and excellence. Thank you for the important decisions you make every day to support your child’s journey and our shared mission. Together, we continue to bloom. Happy Spring Break. Take care, Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins. Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools.

Superintendent's Spotlight Message 03/30/2025. Dear Linden Families, Today, on our last Sunday of March, we remind you that there is no school tomorrow, March 31, in celebration of Eid al-Fitr, also known as‎‎ the “festival of breaking of the fast,” an important religious holiday. We return on Tuesday, welcoming April and the promise of spring. While we navigate the final quarter of our academic year, our counseling teams continue to develop resources to help manage testing anxiety, and we are scheduling additional wellness activities throughout April. Remember that small breaks, physical activity, and healthy sleep routines significantly impact well-being and academic performance. Here is a look ahead for April.... • Autism Acceptance Month and I am proud of our ongoing work to create genuinely inclusive learning environments. Our special education teams continue to implement practices that recognize neurodiversity. When we design classrooms that work for all learners, everyone benefits. • National Poetry Month; our language arts teachers have planned exciting activities that invite students to find their creative voice. Poetry is not just for English class—you will see mathematical poetry, scientific verses, and historical narratives throughout our buildings this month. • Financial Literacy Month is an excellent opportunity to strengthen essential life skills. Several of our departments are collaborating on real-world applications of financial concepts. I encourage families to extend these conversations at home by discussing household budgeting, saving strategies, and responsible financial decision-making. • Earth Day arrives on April 22; our science classes and environmental clubs will lead initiatives to enhance sustainability practices. From campus clean-ups to energy awareness students are developing the knowledge and skills to become environmental stewards. Spring weather brings renewed importance to our emergency preparedness. Remind new drivers to remain vigilant, as more people tend to be outdoors. We have scheduled our crisis drills and updated our emergency communication systems. Your family's awareness of these procedures is essential—please review your home safety protocol and your child's school information and ensure your contact details are current in Genesis. As always, I welcome your feedback and partnership. On behalf of the Linden Board of Education, they are holding a special Board of Education Meeting on April 1 at 6:00 pm to discuss the Uniform Modes of Dress Board Policy. Continue to be the voice of education, and I look forward to engaging with you throughout your student’s educational experience. Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D. Superintendent of Schools

Dear Faculty, Students, and Staff, I am excited to invite you to join me for a significant milestone in my educational journey. On Thursday, March 27, at 5:00 pm, I will defend my dissertation "Exploring how Principals Use Emotional Intelligence and Effective Communication in Post-Pandemic Schools: A Qualitative Study." A dissertation is an in-depth research project required to earn a doctoral degree. It represents years of study, research, and writing to contribute new knowledge to the field. This aligns perfectly with our 3E pathway, where we encourage students to explore their future in Education, Enlistment, or Employment. As your superintendent, I know that change and learning are constant. I strive to model lifelong learning and innovation to improve our educational system. I would be honored to have our educational community watch my defense and see your superintendent as a student, too—nervous yet excited about this culminating academic challenge—a Doctor of Education degree in Global Training and Development. Your presence via Zoom would mean the world to me. I aim to demonstrate to viewers that you can achieve your academic dreams with dedication and support. Thursday, March 27, 2025, 5:00 pm. Join Zoom Meeting: https://nu.zoom.us/j/98582425434?pwd=ibJg2lRqvTRaF7rWvIUDJi9rtgpeE6.1 Meeting ID: 985 8242 5434 Passcode: 548805 With gratitude, Atiya Y. Perkins. (Soon to be Dr. Perkins!). Superintendent of Schools.

Superintendent's Spotlight Message - 03/23/2025. Dear Linden Families, As we recognize the conclusion of Ramadan this Saturday, I wish our families peace as we continue to support our diverse students in their important cultural and religious observances. Additionally, our End of the Year Calendar was approved during last Thursday's Board of Education meeting. Please review the important dates below to be prepared for all upcoming events and activities as we approach the conclusion of the academic year. Online safety remains a top priority for our district. If you are concerned about your teen’s social media use, I was featured on SmartSocial.com to help our community understand the emotional and behavioral impact of social media, recognize harmful patterns, and get practical steps to help your child use social media safely and responsibly. Register to watch the replay at https://streamyard.com/watch/eyAnTAaZWAYP through April 1. Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins Superintendent of Schools

𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐔𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 & 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧! | 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐇 𝟐𝟏 The 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 & 𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫 invites YOU to experience a vibrant cultural journey at our Cultural Diversity Celebration! 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟐𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 🕓 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞: 𝟒:𝟎𝟎 – 𝟔:𝟎𝟎 𝐏𝐌 𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐏𝐃𝐑𝐂 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞? -- Activity Stations: Try your hand at origami, Turkish tap dance, puppet making, rangoli art, Peruvian llamas, henna, and more! -- Food & Drinks: Enjoy a delicious spread of pizza, finger foods, McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, Starbucks coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, and donuts! -- Celebrate Diversity: Immerse yourself in culture, music, and community connections! 𝐀𝐓&𝐓 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 -- Connecting Communities: Get valuable info on affordable iPhones and data plans to keep you connected! This is an event for everyone—a time to learn, share, and celebrate the beauty of our diverse community!

Dear Linden Families, Yesterday was International Women's Day during Women's History Month. The educational women in our district are achieving their milestones but are also innovation-driven and future-focused on reshaping the next generation's global landscape. The day is more than a celebration—it is a call to action. A call to uplift, inspire, and empower every woman and girl in our schools and beyond. As educators and leaders, we have the privilege and responsibility to shape a future where every girl sees no limits to her potential, and every student understands the power of equality. Let us spark conversations, encourage leadership, and recognize the strength, resilience, and brilliance of the women and girls in our schools and community. Through our words, actions, and daily commitment to inclusivity, we ensure that Linden Public Schools remains a place where all students can thrive, dream big, and break barriers. Continuing the theme of leadership, I am proud to announce that the Linden High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) unit has earned the recognition of being the largest unit in the nation, with an impressive number of close to 600 cadets enrolled in the program. The Linden High School NJROTC unit was established in 1986 and originally had approximately 90 cadets in the first years of its establishment. Our current NJROTC cadet population makes it the largest NJROTC unit in the country. Interesting facts about NJROTC: total NJROTC units nationwide: 641; total cadets nationwide: 70,455 Area 2 NJROTC units (Tri-state): 26, NJ NJROTC units: 19. Our NJROTC Unit has received many awards, especially during our annual military inspection. The cadets of Linden Public Schools perform countless hours of community service throughout our city, county, and state. Students, Cadet Captain Josue Carpio, Regimental Commanding Officer, Cadet Commander Denae Griffin, Regimental Executive Officer, Cadet Master Chief Alonzo Smith, Regimental Command Master Chief, and Cadet Commander Alivia Young-Bey, Regimental Operations Officer under Commander Boye Decker, are recognized for inspiring, educating, and empowering others. Happy Day Light Savings Time. Enjoy the sunlight and rest well this evening. Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins Superintendent of Schools

February 24th is the deadline for the 6th Annual Pomptonian Healthy School Lunch Challenge. See attached for details.

Superintendent’s Spotlight Message – 02/09/2025. Dear Linden Families, Superbowl Sunday Safety: The big game is here today! We are all on the same team, Team Linden. No matter whom you are pulling for this Super Bowl, we are all asking those gathering with friends and family to make the proper choice afterward. Your safety is our number one priority. Those new Senior drivers, be aware of your surroundings as you leave a festive gathering. Mission Possible Monday February 10: We are all cheering for our favorite team, Team Linden. Those who remember the cheer, “Big L Rocks the House,” let us all ROAR together! I celebrate with a focus on food. Food brings out the best conversations with family and friends. Let us “Relish Today,” and we can “Ketchup on Monday” together. Yes, we have school on Monday, where all faculty and staff wear “Tiger Pride Mission Possible Monday,” shirts to empower our R.O.A.R. Inclement Weather Preparation: I have read that the Groundhog predicted six more weeks of Winter this year. Most of the Winter weather will arrive Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week. Please monitor the weather forecasts for this week and prepare for potential disruptions during the school day. I continue to meet with our inclement weather committee, including City Officials. I will update you on adjustments necessary for the school day or after-school activities due to the weather. As you watch the weather forecasts, talk to new drivers to review driving hazards in snow, sleet, and ice. Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins Superintendent of Schools

DELAYED OPENING - 02/05/2025. Dear Linden Families, Due to the inclement weather conditions, all Linden Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed opening on Thursday, February 6, 2025. See the table below with the start times for each school. • Busses will operate two hours from the original pick-up time. • There is no before care when there is a delayed opening. • Parents and Guardians of Union County Vocational-Technical Schools refer to the (UCVTS) Transportation in Inclement Weather form. We will continue to monitor this event, and you will be informed if we must change to an entire school closure, including canceling all after-school events if needed. Remain safe and be well, Atiya Y. Perkins Superintendent of Schools

Superintendent's Spotlight Message 02/04/2025 - Dear Linden Families, The June 2025 primary election day has been changed statewide from Tuesday, June 3, 2025, to Tuesday, June 10, 2025. The Board of Education approved this revision to the 2024-2025 school calendar at the January 30 board meeting. The revised calendar has been shared through email and can also be found on our district's website at https://lindenps.org/calendar/ Take care, and thank you for your flexibility, Atiya Y. Perkins Superintendent of Schools

Superintendent's Spotlight Message 02/02/2025 - Dear Linden Families, As we step into February, our district is buzzing with excitement! From celebrating Black History Month to reaching the 100th day of school, we are reminded of our students and staff’s daily achievements by empowering their R.O.A.R. Honoring Black History Month. Throughout February, our schools will host vibrant celebrations that honor African Americans’ rich history and contributions. We invite our entire school community to participate in these meaningful events, including: • Poetry Readings & Essay Competitions – Showcasing student creativity and voices. • Live Performances & Arts Showcases – Bringing history to life through music, dance, and drama. • Distinguished African American Recognition – Honoring trailblazers who paved the way for future generations. Progress Reports, Report Cards, and ½ of day of School. • Elementary Progress Reports were sent home on January 29. Please take a moment to review them and reach out to your child’s teacher with any questions. • Middle & High School Report Cards will be distributed on February 6. • Wednesday, February 5, is a ½ day with lunch served for Staff In-Service Day. 100 Days of Excellence! On February 13, we celebrate 100 days of learning, growth, and success! This milestone is a testament to our students and staff’s hard work. Throughout the day, we’ll shine a spotlight on: Academics | Arts | Athletics | Leadership | Community Partnerships Inclusive Events | Staff Excellence | Infrastructure | Service Projects We’re also excited to partner with the City of Linden as it marks its charter anniversary, strengthening the bond between our schools and the community we serve. February is a month of inspiration, reflection, and celebration. Thank you for participating in this incredible journey—let’s make the next 100 days even more remarkable! Take care, Atiya Y. Perkins. Superintendent of Schools