Linden Board of Education invites you to
Board President Office Hours
Join us for an opportunity to connect directly with the Board President, share your thoughts, and contribute to our community's educational journey.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 6:30 PM
- Meetings are offered virtual or in-person
- Meetings will continue the first Wednesday of every month
In-Person :
The Administration Building
2 E. Gibbons Street
Virtual :
Malaysia Thomas WebEx
CLICK HERE or scan the QR code on the attached flyer to confirm your attendance
WE NEED YOU, ALL MEANS ALL
Presents Disney's "The Little Mermaid"
Where: Linden High School
When:
-- March 26 ~ 7pm
-- March 27 ~ 7pm
-- March 28 ~ 2pm & 7pm
Tickets $12 / $10 Seniors and Students
Susan L. Hudak Auditorium
Linden High School
121 W. St. Georges Ave.
In New Jersey, benefits will be loaded onto an EBT card and mailed to your home. The card can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets, and other locations that accept SNAP or WIC benefits.
Eligibility
Your child may be eligible if:
- Your household already receives SNAP, TANF, Foster Care, or income-eligible Medicaid benefits, or
- Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program and your household meets income requirements for free or reduced-price meals
Many families will receive benefits automatically. If you are already receiving benefits or have been approved for free or reduced-price meals, you do not need to complete another application. Please make sure your current address is on file with your school district so your Summer EBT card is sent to the correct address.
How to Apply
If your child is not automatically eligible, you may apply using the Online Free and Reduced Meal Application found on the Parents tab of the Linden Public Schools homepage at www.lindenps.org.
Paper applications are also available at the main office of each school building.
For questions, please contact Elizabeth Nowak at 908-486-2800 ext. 80021.
For additional information about the Summer EBT Program, visit www.fns.usda.gov/summer
Dear Linden Families,
At last night's Board of Education meeting, the Board approved the 2025-2026 end-of-year calendar, attached to this message. I am sharing important information regarding the end of Spring Recess.
Spring Recess begins Thursday, April 2, with a half-day (½) and no lunch served. School reopens Friday, April 10, with a half-day (½) and no lunch served.
The 2025-2026 school calendar, developed in April 2025, noted that, in the event of inclement weather closures, the district would make up instructional days using the final day of Spring Recess. This information was communicated when the calendar was adopted, and I want to be clear that the district has an obligation to ensure that all families are fully informed. Linden Public Schools was closed for snow days on January 26, February 23, and February 24 — one day beyond our two allotted snow days. As a result, April 10 is a required instructional day. Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.3, the State of New Jersey mandates a minimum of 180 days in session, and no instructional day may be added after student graduation, scheduled for June 23.
Attendance on April 10 is not optional. Pursuant to District Regulation 5200 and N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.4, students must participate in instruction for at least half a day to be recorded present. Under the New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC), Linden Public Schools is held to a 90 percent district attendance rate. Every absence on April 10 directly impacts one's standing. Students absent without excuse are subject to truancy procedures pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and District Regulation 5200, Section G.
Our students have worked hard this year, and April 10 is one final step before the finish line. We ask that every Linden family honor that commitment by ensuring your student is present and ready to learn. We wish all Linden families a safe and restful Spring Recess, and we look forward to welcoming our students back on April 10, which is designated as a Tiger Pride Wellness Day, refreshed, reconnected, and ready to #LPS_ShowupandROAR.
LPS: SEE ATTACHED 2025-2026 END OF YEAR CALENDAR
With purpose,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Linden Families,
At last night's Board of Education meeting, the Board approved the 2025-2026 end-of-year calendar, attached to this message. I am sharing important information regarding the end of Spring Recess.
Spring Recess begins Thursday, April 2, with a half-day (½) and no lunch served. School reopens Friday, April 10, with a half-day (½) and no lunch served.
The 2025-2026 school calendar, developed in April 2025, noted that, in the event of inclement weather closures, the district would make up instructional days using the final day of Spring Recess. This information was communicated when the calendar was adopted, and I want to be clear that the district has an obligation to ensure that all families are fully informed. Linden Public Schools was closed for snow days on January 26, February 23, and February 24 — one day beyond our two allotted snow days. As a result, April 10 is a required instructional day. Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.3, the State of New Jersey mandates a minimum of 180 days in session, and no instructional day may be added after student graduation, scheduled for June 23.
Attendance on April 10 is not optional. Pursuant to District Regulation 5200 and N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.4, students must participate in instruction for at least half a day to be recorded present. Under the New Jersey Quality Single Accountability Continuum (NJQSAC), Linden Public Schools is held to a 90 percent district attendance rate. Every absence on April 10 directly impacts one's standing. Students absent without excuse are subject to truancy procedures pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25 and District Regulation 5200, Section G.
Our students have worked hard this year, and April 10 is one final step before the finish line. We ask that every Linden family honor that commitment by ensuring your student is present and ready to learn. We wish all Linden families a safe and restful Spring Recess, and we look forward to welcoming our students back on April 10, which is designated as a Tiger Pride Wellness Day, refreshed, reconnected, and ready to #LPS_ShowupandROAR.
With purpose,
`
Atiya Y. Perkins, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
March 19, 2026
All Linden Public Schools are closed tomorrow, March 20, the first day of Spring. It is a season defined by light, hope, and the promise of new beginnings.
For many of our Linden families, this moment carries even deeper significance. After a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, Muslims around the world are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyful culmination of a sacred journey marked by discipline, gratitude, and spiritual growth. It is especially fitting that Spring and Eid arrive together, each a testament to the enduring power of togetherness and renewal.
In Linden, 6,482 students across 11 schools, representing over 30 languages and countless cultural traditions, show up every day with resilience, pursue the opportunities before them, strive for achievement, and strengthen the relationships that make this community what it is.
Moments like this remind us that our diversity is not just something we celebrate. It is something we build on. It is how we live our vision of a community where diverse voices are appreciated, and every learner uncovers their unique potential, and how we fulfill our mission of developing future-ready individuals who contribute meaningfully to the world.
To all who are celebrating, we extend our warmest wishes: Eid Mubarak! May this season bring peace, joy, and blessings to you and your loved ones.
With Purpose,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent
ZUMBA NIGHT | March 27, 6 PM in Cafeteria
Dance your way to a healthier you. Join our lively Zumba Night with
DR. OLIVIA RODRIGUEZ - CALDERON
A Linden resident, school principal of Hubbard Middle School in Plainfield, and a Softball coach
Admission:
$5 per person
$17 for a group of 4
March 27, 2026 6:00 pm
at the Cafeteria-Linden High School
FRIDAY MAY 8TH 9:00AM-2:00PM
L.I.N.C.S. (Linden Interfaith Network for Community Services)
WILSON PARK (Summit Terrace)
CASH OR FOOD DONATIONS GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED
Non-Perishable Items Only • Rain or Shine Event
In conjunction with The Linden Education Association the Linden Board of Education, and The City of Linden
The Linden United Soccer Club Youth Development Program is kicking off its Spring 2026 season, and young players are invited to join the fun!
-- Dates: April 1 – June 15, 2026
-- Days: Mondays & Wednesdays
-- Time: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
-- Location: New Alkalla Soccer Turf
2800 Wickersham Ave., Linden, NJ
Ages: 4–10 (Boys & Girls)
💲 Cost: $290 (includes program T-shirt)
This program focuses on skill development, teamwork, and confidence-building in a fun, supportive environment for young athletes.
📩 Sign up today:
Email: lindenunitedsoccerclub@gmail.com
📞 Call: 908-943-8708
⚽ Spots are limited—come develop your game and love for soccer with LUSC this spring!
𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬
The Linden Board of Education invites you to 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐬, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭, for 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 — an open, welcoming opportunity to connect, share your thoughts, and help shape our district’s educational journey.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Scan the QR code or click here
https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSfxWDrdqIpbcs.../viewform
Attend your way:
• 𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐋: Malaysia Thomas WebEx
https://lindenps.webex.com/meet/mthomas1
• 𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍: 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
The Linden Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC) invites you to our March Meeting: Mid-Year Check-In, Self-Care & Beyond on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 6:30–7:30 PM at 170 Hussa Street (AOE Building).
Take a moment to pause, reflect on the school year so far, and learn practical self-care strategies to help you recharge and stay supported. This is also a great opportunity to connect with other SEPAC families and share experiences in a welcoming, parent-led space.
We hope you’ll join us! Please RSVP using the QR code on the flyer.
Board President Office Hours
Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 6:30 PM
The Linden Board of Education invites you to 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐬, 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭, for 𝐎𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 — an open, welcoming opportunity to connect, share your thoughts, and help shape our district’s educational journey.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: Scan the QR code or click here
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxWDrdqIpbcsMl5eOD3Cl6mEnWkkkOocVCKNuHIqllEJSjpA/viewform
Attend your way:
• 𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐀𝐋: Malaysia Thomas WebEx
https://lindenps.webex.com/meet/mthomas1
• 𝐈𝐍 𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐍: 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
2-Hour Delayed Opening Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026
Dear Linden Families,
Due to the inclement weather conditions, all Linden Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed opening on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026
See the attached table 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 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:
• District notifications (email, phone, and text)
• www.lindenps.org
• Linden Public Schools social media platforms
Remain safe and be well,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Linden Families,
Due to the inclement weather conditions, all Linden Public Schools will operate on a 2-hour delayed opening on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026
See the attached table 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 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:
• District notifications (email, phone, and text)
• www.lindenps.org
• Linden Public Schools social media platforms
Remain safe and be well,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools
Dear Linden Families,
Linden Public Schools will be CLOSED tomorrow, Monday, February 23, due to the historic winter snowstorm forecasted to begin today. According to the National Weather Service 5:15 AM notification, the storm will bring heavy snow tonight into early tomorrow morning with blizzard conditions creating near-zero visibility. We remain in close coordination with the City of Linden Office of Emergency Management, the National Weather Service, and our district security, maintenance, and operations teams to assess road conditions, sidewalks, bus routes, and building access in real time. We will continue to monitor conditions closely and will provide an update tomorrow, Monday, regarding school operations for Tuesday.
To assist residents during the storm, Mayor Armstead, in cooperation with the Linden Public Schools Board of Education, will open municipal and school parking lots. Beginning at 12:00 PM today, residents may park their vehicles in our school parking lots across our campuses. The City of Linden will inform residents when vehicles must be removed from school property within 4 hours after the snow stops.
Many families have asked why we cannot provide virtual instruction on snow days. According to New Jersey statute N.J.S.A. 18A:7F-9 and Board Policy 2425, districts may implement virtual or remote instruction only during a declared state of emergency, a declared public health emergency, or a directive by the appropriate health agency requiring closure for more than three consecutive school days. Weather-related closures do not meet these criteria. Additionally, we have two snow days built into our calendar to account for weather-related closures. Our district's Emergency Virtual or Remote Instruction Program is available on our website at 5il.co/3n2pw for your reference.
Weather-related updates through:
• District Notification System:
o Email, Telephone, and Text Message
o Linden Public Schools Website: www.lindenps.org
o Linden Public Schools Social Media Platforms
Reminder:
• Before-and after-care programs and 21st Century programs are closed.
• Union County Vocational-Technical Schools operate on a separate schedule; families of students attending UCVTS will receive communication directly from that school.
• PreK 3 and PreK 4 students attending external providers are to follow Linden Public Schools' closing.
Please stay safe, keep warm, and look out for your neighbors during this storm. We look forward to welcoming our Tigers back once conditions improve.
With Tiger Pride,
Dr. Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent of Schools
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 Lifetouch’s parent company, and we understand that this has raised questions within our community. I have been in direct communication with the district’s Lifetouch representative. Based on the clarification shared with the district, there is no student safety concern related to our district’s 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 Lifetouch’s 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
“Help Others Win.”
This winter, Linden High School students are stepping up to make a difference — 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
Let’s show what Tiger leadership looks like in action.
Let’s serve. Let’s care. Let’s help others win.
Families are invited to attend FREE virtual information sessions about the new NJSLA-A (New Jersey Student Learning Assessment–Adaptive) and NJGPA-A (New Jersey Graduation Proficiency Assessment–Adaptive).
Hosted by the New Jersey Department of Education and Cambium Assessment, these sessions will explain:
✔️ Why New Jersey gives statewide assessments
✔️ How adaptive testing works
✔️ What’s new with NJSLA-A and NJGPA-A
✔️ How these assessments support students and families
🗓 Session Options (Virtual on Zoom):
• Thurs., March 5 | 9:00–11:00 AM
• Thurs., March 5 | 6:00–8:00 PM
• Fri., March 6 | 9:00–11:00 AM
• Fri., March 6 | 1:00–3:00 PM
📝 Registration required by Feb. 27, 2026
Sign up at: nj.portal.cambiumast.com/families.html
📞 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!
