April 6, 2024

Dear Old Bridge Schools Family Members,

We continue to learn that nature is the ultimate boss and in the best of scenarios we are here to observe the splendor of nature hopefully from a safe viewing opportunity. Most of our spring recess treated us to sunless days of torrential rain and high winds. The sun finally showed up on Friday to warm many of us as we exited our homes fleeing a 4.8 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks. Please be assured that our facilities department assessed our schools to ensure their structural safety prior to our student and staff return On Monday, April 8, 2024.

You may have also heard; on Monday our region will be granted view to a partial solar eclipse. We're fortunate to be positioned at around 90% within the "path of totality," with the peak expected to last approximately two minutes. This celestial spectacle will reach its climax between 2:00 PM and 4:30PM. Obviously, the event coincides with student dismissal and our after-school activities. Consequently, there may be delays or rescheduling of outdoor athletic events on April 8 to prioritize student safety. Rest assured, any changes to the athletic calendar will be promptly communicated by your child’s school. While a solar eclipse is a fascinating event, it's imperative to observe it safely.

If you plan to keep your child home or remove your child early from school to attend some of the numerous viewing events occurring in the tri-state area, please notify your child’s school following regular attendance and early pick up protocols. While the absence is not excused, it is understood.

Below are additional resources and recommended safety measures for your review at home.
How To View a Solar Eclipse Safely (clevelandclinic.org)
Solar Eclipse Eye Safety - American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)

Lastly, the following link is encouraged for elementary classroom use to explain the eclipse and eye safety with our students prior to dismissal on Monday.
https://youtu.be/Jejjy-LitcM?si=L-l6oti7yszr1WCO

Please remember and review with your child, looking directly at the sun, even during a partial eclipse, can cause temporary or even permanent damage to your eyes. Protective eyewear is only useful when worn properly. This can be challenging for younger children. For more information about the solar eclipse, be sure to visit the resources provided.

Thank you and enjoy your weekend.

Be well, be kind, and believe in Old Bridge
David Cittadino
Superintendent of Schools

July 1, 2023

Dear Parents, Guardians and Staff of the Old Bridge Township Public School District,

I hope this message finds you well and enjoying a rejuvenating summer break with your loved ones. As we gear up for the upcoming 2023-2024 school year, I wanted to share some exciting news regarding our district's strategic plan: The Bridge to 2028.

The Bridge to 2028 is a comprehensive roadmap designed to propel our educational community towards a future of excellence, resilience, and inclusivity. This strategic plan encompasses four key pillars that will guide our efforts and ensure a holistic approach to your child's education.

1. Excellence in Education: We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the highest quality education for our students. The Bridge to 2028 emphasizes innovative teaching methods, rigorous curriculum enhancements, and the integration of modern technologies to prepare our students for the ever-changing global landscape.

2. Fiscal Resilience: We understand the importance of financial stability to sustain our educational endeavors. The strategic plan outlines strategies to optimize our resources, improve operational efficiency, and seek additional funding opportunities to support our educational programs while remaining fiscally responsible.

3. Whole Child Approach: Nurturing the well-being and development of every child is at the core of our educational philosophy. The Bridge to 2028 prioritizes initiatives that foster social-emotional learning, mental health support, physical wellness, and a safe and inclusive environment. We believe that addressing the whole child is essential to their academic success and personal growth.

4. Community-Driven Strategic Planning: We value the diversity and strength of our community, and your input is crucial in shaping our educational priorities. The Bridge to 2028 emphasizes collaborative decision-making and community engagement, ensuring that our strategic plan aligns with the needs and aspirations of all stakeholders. Your voices will be heard and incorporated into our ongoing planning processes.

I am thrilled about the possibilities that lie ahead as we embark on this exciting journey together. The Bridge to 2028 is not just a plan on paper; it represents our shared commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience for your children.

Throughout the coming school year, we will be hosting community forums to strengthen our district to home connection. Together, we will build a stronger, more resilient educational community that nurtures the potential of every student.

Thank you for your ongoing support and trust in the Old Bridge Township Public School District. I look forward to the incredible year ahead and the positive impact we will make together.

Warm regards,

David Cittadino
Proud Superintendent of Old Bridge Township Public School District

War and conflicts around the world are frightening and heartbreaking for adults to comprehend. For children and young adults, the barbaric raw images of war found in all media forms can be terrifying. This is the second time in two years our children have seen war unfold in real time. The war between Israel and Hamas reveals the worst cruelty of the human condition where civilians are too often the victim of brutal irreprehensible violence.  As parents, we desire a world where our children can grow, learn, and thrive without the constant threat of violence.

We know that many of our Old Bridge students, families, and staff come from backgrounds, especially Israeli and Palestinian, with loved ones in this war-torn region. These individuals may be feeling scared, stunned, and upset. Please know that we are here for all who are impacted by this tragic war, and we will have counseling services and staff on hand for all members of our learning community who are suffering.

In Old Bridge, our mission is to always provide a safe and nurturing space for all students to learn, grow, and flourish. While we cannot control a violent and historic war in foreign lands, we can ensure that we respect our differences and treat each other with kindness and love right here at home.

For those seeking resources to have meaningful support for children at home, please visit the resources provided below.

 How to talk to your children about conflict and war | UNICEF Europe and Central Asia

 https://www.nctsn.org/resources/talking-to-children-about-war

Be well, be kind, and believe in Old Bridge
David Cittadino
Superintendent of Schools