The Friday Focus
March 13, 2026
From the Office of the Superintendent
Robotics Workshop for Families, Saturday, 3.14.26 @ 1pm: Meet student leaders from the Hopewell Valley CHS Robotics Team! They'll introduce us to their robot and share how the group uses electrical engineering and applied AI technology to design, create and compete in the world of robotics. Participants will even get the chance to drive a robot! Recommended for ages 8+.
Register: www.PenningtonLibrary.org/RoboticsWorkshop26
The New Jersey STRIDE 2026 Virtual; Job Fair, Thursday, March 19th, 4:30-7:30pm
Aspiring and Experienced Educators ate encouraged to attend! For Aspiring educators, our member districts can help with teaching certifications!
Tech Night In, Pennington Public Library, Friday, March 20th, 6-9pm is a community-wide invitation for families to step into each other’s tech spaces to spark conversation and creativity. Technology doesn’t have to be a wall between us—it can be a bridge. Instead of scrolling solo, we’re providing the prompts to help you explore together.
Family Nature Hike Series Kickoff Event! March 22nd, Herrontown Woods, Princeton, 11am: Free! Open to families with children ages 3-14 Register for Details. Bring your family for a relaxed and engaging hike where kids can explore the woods, discover plants and wildlife, and learn how healthy ecosystems work. Sponsored by the HVRSD ECO PTO and Littlebrook PTO
Youth Mental Health First Aid: This training program is intended for any adult who interacts with youth ages 12-18. It teaches how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents. Many of our interested staff, parents and community members have participated. The last session this year will be in-person on Tuesday, April 21 from 8:30-3:30 in the board office.
If you are a teacher in grades 7-12 and are interested in attending this one-day training, please complete this form by April 6. Space is limited and will be on a first come, first served basis.
We are pleased to offer this training thanks to a grant from the College of New Jersey and the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance. Any questions, please contact the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance at hvmunicipalalliance@gmail.com.
From Soil to Scholars: Help Grow Our District’s Living Classrooms
Thanks to the dedicated work of HVRSD's Climate Action Committee, HVRSD received a Climate Literacy Grant, and will partner with The Watershed Institute to install native plant gardens at all six district schools. These "living classrooms" will allow K-12 students to tackle real-world climate solutions right on campus. BUT we can't do this alone, we need your muscle to get them started! We are looking for volunteers to help with garden prep so that students can plant (during their school day!) smoothly. The slots are:
Sat 4/18 @ Timberlane, 1-4pm
Sun 4/19 @ Central High 9am-12pm / Hopewell Elementary 1-4pm
Sun 4/26 @ Toll Gate 9am-12pm/ Bear Tavern 1-4pm
Tues 4/28 @ Stony Brook, 1-4pm
Whether you can stay for the full three hour block or just drop by for one hour, every bit of help counts. Please sign up here, or email Olivia at ospildooren@thewatershed.org with your availability. Thank you so much for your continued support!
The 4th annual Hopewell Valley 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run is taking place at HVCHS on Saturday, April 18th. This event brings together students, families, and community members to raise funds supporting HVCHS senior events such as Senior Sunrise, Senior Sunset, and other senior activities, and this year’s race benefits the classes of 2027 and 2028. More information and registration can be found at https://hopewellvalley5k.com Please reach out to chs2027parents@gmail.com with any questions or to learn about sponsorship opportunities.
Kindergarten and Kindergarten Camp Registration are open.
Please click: Kindergarten Registration for information and forms
Please click: Kindergarten Camp Letter for more information!
Due to continued growth in the district and fluctuations in enrollment, the School District may need to adjust attendance zones and/or school assignments before the start of the school year. As a result, the school listed at the time of registration may change. Families will be notified of any changes to their child’s school assignment before the start of the school year.
Our 23rd Annual HVRSD Governor's Teacher of the Year "Above and Beyond" Gala will take place on Friday, March 20th at Hopewell Valley Vineyards!
HVCHS Updates: Please be sure to review the February edition of HVCHS Updates, which contains information about course selection, NJGPA testing, Securly screenings, and more!
Course Selection Information: As you saw in the February edition of HVCHS Updates, course selection for the 2026-27 school year has begun and counselors are now meeting with students to finalize their selections. Teachers have provided initial eligibility information for students in OnCourse; however, please note that eligibility for honors and AP classes will be reviewed after the third marking period, and placements may change based on the students' eligibility at that point. Questions about course eligibility or elective selection can be directed to the counseling department or the department supervisors. Additional information about all courses can be found in the HVCHS Program of Studies.
Wellness Day on Wednesday, March 18, HVCHS will be hosting a wellness fair in conjunction with the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance and several local organizations. Our sophomores and seniors will have the opportunity to visit the fair during their physical education classes and learn more about the community resources that are available.
NJGPA Testing & Special Schedules - Next week: As you saw in the March 2 email from Ms. Riley, the State of NJ has mandated that all juniors take the NJGPA assessments. These assessments will take place on March 17, 19, and 20. This testing is required; it is important that all juniors are on time for school on those days, and that they come to school prepared with their fully charged, district-issued Chromebook, a set of headphones, and a pencil. In order to provide an uninterrupted testing environment, the Classes of 2026, 2028, and 2029 will have a three hour delay and will not be required to report to school until 10:45 a.m. We will have an additional bus run that will take place three hours after the regularly scheduled times, in order for 9th, 10th, and 12th grade students to arrive at school by 10:45 a.m. Students should plan to arrive at the bus stop three hours after the regular morning pick up time. Shortly after all students arrive at school, we will move into our unit lunch period and follow a special schedule for the remainder of the day. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we adjust our schedules for these days of testing.
It's not too late to join the Senior Class Trip to Woodloch Resort on May 18-20th! Although the original deadline has passed, we are still accepting student sign-up forms up to March 23rd pending room availability at the resort. This opportunity also extends to spring athletes who may not have been able to commit prior to the start to the season. Be sure to continue checking the Senior Class Trip website, Oncourse messages, and the class Instagram page throughout the month for important updates, including activity waivers and additional trip information.
Summer Job & Service Fair: Did your student miss the job and service fair? Over 30 employers and service organizations participated offering summer employment and service opportunities. Questions? Please contact the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance at hvmunicipalalliance@gmail.com.
Lewis Center for the Arts Ten-Minute Play Contest: Each year, the Lewis Center for the Arts sponsors contests and scholarships for high school students, the "Princeton University Ten-Minute Play Contest." Eligibility for this annual playwriting contest is limited to students in the eleventh grade in the U.S. (or international equivalent of the eleventh grade). Each year a guest playwright serves as contest judge. Acclaimed playwrights Anya Pearson, Jiehae Park, Dipika Guha, and others have judged the contest in recent years. There is a limit of 250 entries for the contest. Once 250 entries are received, the contest will close and the submission form will no longer be available otherwise the contest will close on March 31st at 12:00 p.m. (EDT). No late entries will be accepted.
Local Food Resources & School Lunch Information: Please see the information sent by the district for information about nearby resources as well as school lunches, menus, pricing and Free & Reduced forms.
Absences, Late Arrivals, & Early Dismissals: Parents/Guardians should call our TeleSafe number 609-737-4003, Ext 1, by 7:45 am to report an absence or late arrival. Please provide a note if your child needs to be dismissed from school early. Please also review our attendance procedures for details about the district policies. *As a reminder, students must be in school for at least four hours in order to participate in all athletic or extra-curricular activities and events*
What’s Happening at HVCHS? Please follow us on Twitter: @HVCentralHS and Instagram: hopewell_valley_central_hs for pictures, updates, and fun facts. Our daily morning announcements can be found on the school website and via this link. Fundraising activities from our classes, clubs, and teams can be found on our fundraising calendar. Also, check out our HV Student Publications Network page for student-created podcasts, digital videos, and more! If you are a graduate of HVCHS, and you would like to join our Alumni Directory, please complete our Database Form and indicate what type of information you would like to receive from HVCHS.
SAVE THE DATE
March 13: Sophomore Night Out
March 17, 19, 20: NJGPA Testing
March 18: Wellness Day / Early Dismissal
March 20: HVEF Above and Beyond Celebration
March 27: Spring Pep Rally
May 1: Junior Prom at Coopers Riverview
June 5th: Senior Prom at Spring Mill Manor
Timberlane Middle School Website
TONIGHT
"Shamrock and Shenanigans Family Night" from 5-7pm
Trivia! Pizza! Potato Decorating! All proceeds go to the St. Baldrick's Foundation.
This is a family event. All students should be accompanied by an adult
We look forward to seeing you there!
The TMS Spring Musical "Freaky Friday": if you are interested in joining the stage crew, interviews will be held Monday, March 16th and Tuesday, March 17th - after school in Ms. Schubin's Room. Please check the bulletin board outside of Ms. Schubin's room for all information!
Thanks to the Hopewell Valley Education Foundation, Timberlane will be hosting Dr, Maynard Okereke, Founder of Hip Hop Science, on Wednesday, March 18th. Dr. Okereke is an award winning science communicator and a professional speaker who uses his curiosity and love for learning to help convey knowledge and generate excitement about STEM.
TMS Cutting Hair Because We Care on March 18th: supporting the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and ChildrenWithHairLoss.org. HERE is the link to the presentation. Our St. Baldrick's TMS Team 2026 can be found HERE. The TMS Inflatable Invitational will also be taking place. Thank you for your support!
2026 TMS Spring Sports will begin on Monday, March 23rd! Baseball and Boys & Girls Lacrosse (Open to 7th & 8th Grade Only). Softball and Boys & Girls Track & Field (Open to All Grades)
Absences, Late Arrival & Early Dismissal: Parents should call our TeleSafe # 609-737-4004, Ext 2, by 8:00 am, to report an absence or late arrival. If your child is leaving early, please be sure to send in a note when possible. If the need occurs after the start of school, please call the Main Office.
TMS Updates: For additional information about TMS, please visit our webpage, or follow us on Twitter @Timberlane_HV, or instagram @timberlane_timberwolves
*Dates To Remember*
Friday, March 13 - "Shamrock and Shenanigans Family Night", 5-7 pm
Wed, March 18- Cutting Hair Because We Care / Hip Hop Science Assembly
Friday, March 20 - HVEF Above and Beyond Gala
Friday, March 27 - 7th Grade Wild Encounters Assembly
3/30-4/3 - Spring Break - Schools Closed
Kids Night Out - Wed. March 18th is an Early Dismissal and we’ve got plans!
Join Bear Tavern for an afternoon and evening of fun at Urban Air in Lawrence from 4:00–8:00 PM, then grab a sub at Jersey Mike’s (located in the same shopping center).
• Urban Air: Purchase your tickets in person and show the Bear Tavern Flyer — 20% of proceeds will go to Bear Tavern!
• Jersey Mike’s: Mention Bear Tavern or use the code online and 25% of the profits ALL DAY will go back to Bear Tavern!
Rock Your Socks - Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (3/21) by wearing fun mismatched socks on 3/20 to show your support for acceptance and inclusion. You can also order them from non-profit Down Syndrome Association of New Jersey by 3/13 to help raise funds. Thank you!
TMS Music Open House: The TMS Music Department invites all 4th and 5th-grade families to attend a Music Open House on March 26th. The event will take place at Timberlane from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The evening will give families a chance to meet the teachers, see the classrooms, mingle with current students and parents, enjoy student performances, and light refreshments. Please RSVP here if you are planning on attending. Click on the following link for more information. TMS Music Open House 2026
Lost & Found - All items in the Lost & Found will be donated on Friday, 3/27. Please ask your kids to look for any of their missing items and please label everything that comes into school.
5th Grade Congratulatory Ads - Click here for more information and to purchase our congratulatory ad for the 25-26 BT Yearbook. *Only 5th- grade families can see the link. All Congratulatory ads must be received by Friday, April 10th.
Parent and BT Staff Night Out - April 17th Paint and Sip at HV Vineyards - Parents and Bear Tavern Staff are invited to enjoy a night out at Hopewell Valley Vineyards for a step-by-step painting session guided by an artist. See flyer and click here to purchase a ticket.
School Lunch Information - Please click this link for the 2025-2026 information.
Absences & Late Arrivals - Parents/Guardians please call our TeleSafe number: 609-737-4005, Ext 2, by 8:00 a.m. to report an absence or late arrival.
Changes In Students' Dismissal - If there is a change in how students will be going home (pick up, take the bus, after-school program, etc.), please be sure to call or email the main office at 609-737-4005 or btmainoffice@hvrsd.org. Please CC your child’s homeroom teacher.
*Dates To Remember*
3/18: Early Dismissal @ 12:45 PM for Staff Development
3/20 - Wear Mismatched Socks For Down Syndrome Awareness
3/20: Annual Above & Beyond Celebration at HV Vineyard
3/23 - Report Cards Available in Parent Portal
3/26: Timberlane Music Open House for 4th & 5th Graders 5:30-6:30 PM
3/30-4/3: Spring Break - Schools Closed
4/10: Lifetouch Spring Pictures
4/17: Paint and Sip at HV Vineyards with BT Parents & Staff
4/23: Bring Your Child to Work Day
Principal Brettell's March Edition of Hopewell Happenings - a comprehensive overview of the month.
On Wednesday, March 18th, during our SEL Day of Cooperation, students will work together to pack donated items hygiene kits before delivering them to The Chubby’s Project. This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to practice teamwork and generosity while making a positive impact in the community. Thank you for helping HES make a difference in our community!
Rock Your Socks - Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (3/21) by wearing fun mismatched socks on 3/20 to show your support for acceptance and inclusion. You can also order them from non-profit Down Syndrome Association of New Jersey by 3/13 to help raise funds. Thank you!
The HES Mini Musical will take place on March 21st at 2:00 PM in the HES Cafetorium. This year’s production, Finville Elementary, is a heartwarming story about making friends, finding where you belong, and learning to fit in through the power of music. Our students have been working hard to bring this colorful and meaningful show to life, and we can’t wait to share it with you. We hope to see you there!
The Student Council Coin Wars will take place March 23rd-27th. Start collecting your coins! The family friendly competition will help support the Student Council and HES students.
TMS Music Open House: The TMS Music Department invites all 4th and 5th-grade families to attend a Music Open House on March 26th. The event will take place at Timberlane from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The evening will give families a chance to meet the teachers, see the classrooms, mingle with current students and parents, enjoy student performances, and light refreshments. Please RSVP here if you are planning on attending. Click on the following link for more information. TMS Music Open House 2026
HES Color Run - Get ready for a colorful celebration! Join us on Saturday, April 18 at 10:00 AM for a 1-mile fun run around campus supporting our Green Team and outdoor learning spaces. Enjoy color stations, a DJ Dance Party, snacks, a Nature Harmony T-shirt, finisher’s medal, and more—fun for the whole family! Register now HERE . Are you Interested in sponsoring the HES Color Run? Click HERE for details and contact Ms. Fleisher at rachelfleisher@hvrsd.org to confirm your partnership. Want to help out? Sign up to volunteer HERE! We can’t wait to see you there!
New HES Spirit Wear is Here! - To celebrate Hopewell Elementary’s 100-year anniversary, the HES PTO is excited to launch two new spirit wear options:
1. Spirit Wear Store - Shop classic HES tees, pajamas, cups, and more. → merch.hopewellpto.org
2.Rooted Rags Collection - Hand-dyed and embroidered HES apparel made by a Hopewell school mom. Orders take 1-3 weeks. → handmade.hopewellpto.org
Yearbook Ordering - Yearbooks for the 2025–2026 school year are now available to purchase online. You can click here for ordering details. Orders are due by May 8, 2026
School Lunch Information: Please click this link for the 2025-2026 information.
Absences & Late Arrivals - Parents/Guardians should call our TeleSafe number, 609-737- 4007, Ext 2, by 8:00 a.m. to report an absence or late arrival. Thank you.
HES Changes in Students’ Dismissal - If there is a change in how students will be going home, please be sure to call or email the main office at 609-737-4007 hwmainoffice@hvrsd.org
Dates to Remember:
3/18: SEL Day of Cooperation Art Project/Early Dismissal at 12:45 PM for Staff Development
3/30-4/3: Spring Break - Schools Closed
3/18: SEL Day of Cooperation Art Project
3/20: Rock Your Socks! Mismatched Socks Day
3/20: HVEF’s Above & Beyond Celebration, 6:30-9:30pm, Hopewell Valley Vineyards
3/21: HES Mini-Musical
3/26: Timberlane Music Open House for 4th & 5th Graders 5:30-6:30 PM
3/30-4/3: Spring Break - Schools Closed
4/18: Color Run hosted by the Green Team
Stony Brook Elementary School Website
Wiggle & Giggle Bag Donations Still Needed - Deadline Extended to Fri, 3/20!
There is still time to donate to the Wiggle & Giggle Bag collection! Student Council extended the deadline to Fri, 3/20. Let’s help them reach their goal of 105 bags! Click here to see what items are needed by grade.
Our annual read-a-thon "Read-A-Fun" is underway! Here are two videos that explain how to participate:
How to authorize your child's Reading-Raiser account: https://youtu.be/X4KCsWBwA7M
How to become a sponsor and invite more sponsors: https://youtu.be/NrUbWdEfy24
View instructions on how to use your parent account: https://app.readafun.com/guides/parent?d=1048.
Rock Your Socks - Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (3/21) by wearing fun mismatched socks on 3/20 to show your support for acceptance and inclusion. You can also order them from non-profit Down Syndrome Association of New Jersey by 3/13 to help raise funds. Thank you!
TMS Music Open House: The TMS Music Department invites all 4th and 5th-grade families to attend a Music Open House on March 26th. The event will take place at Timberlane from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The evening will give families a chance to meet the teachers, see the classrooms, mingle with current students and parents, enjoy student performances, and light refreshments. Please RSVP here if you are planning on attending. Click on the following link for more information. TMS Music Open House 2026
- SBPTO Membership Toolkit - Click HERE to register for volunteer opportunities, sign up for the directory to find your friends and order apparel!
- School Lunch Information
- Absences & Late Arrivals - Call our Attendance line at 737-4006, Ext 2, by 8:00 am to report an absence or late arrival. Refer to our Attendance Procedures for details.
- Dismissal Changes - Email the main office in advance at sbmainoffice@hvrsd.org and refer to our Attendance Procedures for details regarding early dismissals.
*Dates To Remember*
All Month - Principal’s Reading Challenge
Friday, 3/13: Dress Like A Book Character Day
Wed, 3/18: Early Dismissal/Staff Professional Development
Fri, 3/20: World Down Syndrome Day – Rock Your Socks!
Fri, 3/20: HVEF’s Above & Beyond Celebration, 6:30-9:30pm
Wed, 3/25: Spring Picture Day/ Former All Stars CHS students Read to Classes / Spring Picture Day
Thur., 3/26 Student Council Trip to Millhill Family & Community Center
Thurs., 3/26: Timberlane Music Open House for 4th & 5th Graders 5:30-6:30 PM
Mon. 3/30-Fri. 4/3: Spring Break - Schools Closed
Toll Gate Grammar School Website
Toll Gate Grammar on Instagram
Email the Toll Gate Main Office
TO Book Fair: We are so happy to bring our Spring Book Fair back again this year. It will be held in the Media Center at Toll Gate from March 16 - March 20. Our Book Fair Hours for TG Families will be on March 16,17,and 19 from 3:45 - 6:30 pm. Your Toll Gator should have come home this week with a Book Fair Flyer with a lot of exciting books to choose from.
Online Book Fair - Can't come to our Book Fair in-person? Our Online Book Fair will run from March 13 - March 28 (25% of sales come back to TG)
We need volunteers! Please consider volunteering your time to help with set up/take down, be a cashier or a book finder. We need your help to make our book fair successful. Volunteer Signup
eWallets - If you would like to create an eWallet for your child please visit our Book Fair website. Toll Gate Spring Book Fair 2026
Teachers eWallets - will also have the opportunity to create eWallets which families may contribute to as well: Teacher eWallet
Teacher Classroom Wish List will also be back please look for the Poster at the Book Fair. Also new this year we will have a Teacher Wish List Table to make the wish list one step easier.
Thank you for supporting Toll Gate. Looking forward to seeing everyone at the Book Fair!
Student Council March Events: Please take a look at our upcoming March events sponsored by the Toll Gate Student Council. All students are invited to participate!
TMS Music Open House: The TMS Music Department invites all 4th and 5th-grade families to attend a Music Open House on March 26th. The event will take place at Timberlane from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The evening will give families a chance to meet the teachers, see the classrooms, mingle with current students and parents, enjoy student performances, and light refreshments. Please RSVP here if you are planning on attending. Click on the following link for more information. TMS Music Open House 2026
This year’s Green Week Student Expo & Celebration will take place on Friday, April 24th. Students in grades 1-5 are invited to participate in this year’s Green Week Student Expo & Celebration. View this slide deck for more information.
Dismissal Changes: If your dismissal plans change on any given day, please email tgmainoffice@hvrsd.org, (this email will go to both main office secretaries, Ashlee Dana and Patricia Jaczko) to inform them of the change. Please also cc' your child's homeroom teacher.
Reporting Student Absences: Please remember to call the Telsafe line (609-737-4008, option 2) by 8:00am for any absences or tardiness. Emails to a teacher may not be seen in a timely manner. Telsafe is the best way to report an absence. If your child is not at school and you haven’t reported them absent or tardy, you will get a phone call from Mrs. Smith, our school nurse.
Dates to Remember
3/1-3/31: Read a Fun Fundraiser
Friday, 3/13: Preschool Collab Day (No PEECH)
Wear Green "Lucky to be a Gator" Day & Green Juice Stand
3/16 - 3/20: Scholastic Book Fair opens
Wed., 3/18: Early Dismissal at 12:45 PM for Staff Development
Friday, 3/20: HVEF "Above and Beyond" Gala
Sunday, 3/22: TG Skate Night at Princeton Day School
Thurs., 3/26: Timberlane Music Open House for 4th & 5th Graders 5:30-6:30 PM
Friday, 3/27: Gator Gathering
3/30-4/3: Spring Break - Schools Closed
Thursday, 4/9: STEAM Night
Wednesday, 4/22: Grade 3 Mini-Musical 6:30pm
Friday, 4/24: Green Week Student Expo
Saturday, 4/25: PTO Spring Social
Community Programs & Events
Hopewell Basketball: Limited spots Open for Spring Hoops! Both Divisions will close on 3/15. Assessment on Wednesday 3/18.
Princeton University Concerts Little Listeners: Time for Music Saturday, March 14, 2026 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, Richardson Auditorium, Alexander Hall. In this fun and playful program, we'll discover how time makes music special. Along the way, we'll see how music can match our feelings - whether we're happy, sleepy, or ready to dance! Curated for kids ages 3-6. Relaxed format for neurodiverse audiences Purchase tickets on concerts.princeton.edu
Princeton University Art Museum Art for Families: Tomb Guardians. Sat. March 14th, 10am-1pm. Stop by and make a work of art inspired by Chinese tomb guardians in new Huo Pavilion of Asian Art. All ages are welcome; no tickets or reservations required. We provide the materials, you bring the creativity!
LILY IN BLOOM, A Spring Floral Pop-Up Benefiting the Lily of the Valley Scholarship Foundation, Thursday, March 26 • 6:30 PM. Join us for a beautiful evening of flowers, friends, and giving back.
Enjoy refreshments while creating your own spring floral arrangement in a beautiful vessel, perfect to display or share with family during your spring celebrations. The arrangement will be created with step-by-step instruction from Adriene Presti, AIFD, owner of Dahlia. Proceeds from the evening support the Lily of the Valley Trade Scholarship. Come create for a cause while helping students build their futures.
Space may be limited. RSVP https://evite.me/uecweyq9tJ
Please click on the link to learn more about the Lily of the Valley Scholarship Foundation
Howell Living History Farm: Upcoming March Events include:
3.14 Visit from the Horse Doctor, Dentist & Shoer
3.21 Workhorse Rides & Winter in the Farmhouse
"The Secrets of Butterfly Gardening - What do Butterflies Really Need" March 23, 7-8pm, Hopewell Presbyterian Church. This workshop covers essential elements like host plants, nectar sources, and the basics of habitat design to attract and sustain butterflies. . We will also have a variety of native butterfly host plant seeds to help you start your garden!
Cotsen Children's Library: Annual 350 for 50 Writing Contest! In this annual contest writers ages 9-16 are challenged to write a 350-word story. Winning stories will be illustrated and published on our blog for all to see. Additionally, winning authors will enjoy an online $50 literary shopping spree on Amazon. Contest submissions are due by 3:00 pm on Monday, March 23, 2026.
Hopewell Recreation is offering two different Spring Break Programs during Hopewell Valley's Spring Break, March 30-April 3. See the attached flyers with Registration info.
*March 31: Ultimate City Workshop - Lego Class (Ages 5-9) 9am-12pm at the Hopewell Township Municipal Building
*March 30-April 3: Skateboard Camp (Ages 7-15) 9am-12pm at the Skate Park at the Hopewell
HV Swim School: is a technique-based swim school where athletes ages 12-18 will work on their stroke development while preparing for the upcoming middle school, high school, or club seasons.
Hopewell Valley Soccer Association: Spring Registration is Open for Rec Soccer!
Hopewell Valley Children's Theatre presents: Seussical Jr. ! 3/20, 3/21 and 3/22 at the HCHS Performing Arts Center. Buy Tickets HERE
Hopewell Valley Youth Football & Cheer Spring Flag Football: Registration is open to boys and girls ages 5-14. Programs start on April 26th. Click here for more information and here for registration.
"Sockey" Spring Session at Toll Gate: A safe variant of Indoor Hockey - played with "sock" covered sticks. No experience necessary!
Hopewell Township Recreation: Spring & Summer Program Guide for upcoming programs.
The Healthy Kids Running Series: program runs from April 12 - May 17. From Pre-K to Grade 12, Sundays 4/12, 4/19, 4/26, 5/3, 5/17 @ 4 pm at Lawrence Middle School.
$5 Family Matinees, Saturdays, The Princeton Garden Theatre
Inclusion Sports Performance Training: We are committed to providing the best possible experience for every student, regardless of their abilities, recognizing that each one learns in their own unique way and at their own pace.
Princeton Garden Theatre: Spring Break Young Screenwriters’ Workshop, March 30th-April 2nd, 9am to Noon, Open to grades 8th through 12th. Each participant will spend the four-day program completing three original scenes using the industry-standard for screenwriting format and structure.
McCarter Theatre, Theater Explorer Camp, Ages 7-12, March 30th - April 3rd:
Campers will rotate through mini creative projects—imaginative games, scene-building challenges, music jams, and movement activities in a playful, supportive environment. Perfect for curious young performers eager to explore the magic of theater and make new friends!
Lawrence Hopewell Trail "Complete the Loop 5k and Fun Run", Saturday, May 2nd, 9am, check-in 8am Rosedale Park, Pennington: Join the Lawrence Hopewell Trail for the first annual Complete the Loop 5k & Fun Run - a community event welcoming runners, walkers, and families while supporting the LHT's mission to complete the 20-mile loop.
Participant Details: Timed 5k (ages 8+); Approximately 1-mile Fun Run (all ages); Runners & Walkers Welcome! Teams: Register with a team for the 5K and once your team hits 10 participants, everyone gets $3 off their registration.
Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Pennington/LHT5K
Sponsorship: https://lhtrail.org/5k-sponsors/
Music Mountain Theatre, Young Audience 2026 Season
Save the Date for Hopewell Township's 3rd Annual Cultural Festival on Saturday, May 2 from 11-2 at Woolsey Park! Celebrate the cultures that make our community vibrant with live performances, music, demonstrations, vendors, food trucks, and more!
Here are the links to the local libraries for upcoming storytimes, events and programs:
Summer Camps & Programs
The below represent programs with which we've had personal experience, have been recommended to us or just that we've been made aware of. We recommend that families research the opportunities for best fit.
Apple Montessori Summer Camp, Princeton: Apple campers and their families love the exciting, imaginative, and enriching environment of our summer camp program.
Apple Hart Farm Camp: provides a rich, outdoor experience in which budding nature lovers connect with the natural world in a safe, nurturing environment through hands-on animal care, imaginative play, nature hikes, art, gardening, cooking and more. Camp groups are led by are professional teachers who have undergone background clearances.
Arts Council of Princeton Summer Arts Studios, June 21 through August 28: Summer Arts Studios are officially live, so that means the fun is just around the corner (and spots are filling fast!). Don’t miss your chance to spark creativity with our hands-on art classes for kids of all ages. Explore this year's lineup and register today.
Art Sparks Studio Summer Camps & Programs: Summer Camp at Art Sparks provides theme-based creative experiences during which children get to explore a variety of media such as acrylics, collage, watercolors, pastels, charcoal, printmaking, sculpture, assemblage, colored pencils, clay and much more.
Centercourt Summer Camps: offering Pre-K, Multi-Sport and several sports options!
The Chapin School, ESF Camps: The extensive indoor and outdoor facilities allow us to offer our unique blend of activities, sports, and special events throughout the summer, rain or shine.
CrossFit Kids Camp at Pennington CrossFit will help build confidence and a love of exercise for children between the ages of 5 and 8. Each day of camp will have a theme, and children can expect to learn new physical skills, play games, do crafts, play outside, and more. The camp is appropriate for all skill levels and will run August 17-21 from 11:00am until 2:00 pm.
Grove Passage Theatre Group - Summer Camp for ages 10-18. Monday-Friday 9am-3pm, July 6-August 2 at The Pennington School. www.grovepassage.org/auditions
HV Swim America Summer Lessons - signups are open! HV Swim America is a structured, small group swim lesson program coached by certified ASCA swim instructors. Lessons are for ages 3-12 and will be run all summer long at the Hopewell Tennis and Swim Center. All lessons are guaranteed 4:1 or better swimmer to coach ratio.
Hopewell Township Recreation Summer Camp Guide: Offers a variety of camps and sports programs!
Hopewell Recreation and Primetime Athletics Basketball Camps: Hopewell Recreation with Primetime Athletics is excited to host a high-energy basketball camp from June 22nd - June25th led by Hopewell Valley Central High School Boys Basketball Head Coach Matt Stein and current HVCHS players. This is an incredible opportunity for kids going into grades 3rd - 9th to learn directly from the coaches and players. Campers will sharpen their skills through drills, competitive competitions, and exciting games each day. Whether you're looking to improve your shooting, ball handling, defense, or overall confidence on the court, this camp is designed to help every player grow — all while having a blast! Please visit the website for more information.
Hopewell Valley YMCA Summer Camp: Campers enjoy a full range of engaging activities that make the most of every summer moment. Convenient drop-off and pick-up take place at Toll Gate Grammar, providing families with easy access to the campground. Flexible scheduling options—including All Day Camp and Core Camp—allow families to choose the program that best fits their needs
Hopewell Swim & Tennis: Summer Camps and Programs, The ideal balance of tennis and fun summer camp activities with instructional programs created for levels ranging from complete beginner to more advanced levels.
Hun School Summer Programs:
- Sports and Dance Camps: Several Camps offered
- Day Camps Campers will be engaged in playing indoor and outdoor activities with other campers and nurturing counselors from the Hun Summer Community.
- Discovery Camps: Students in grades kindergarten through eighth can learn computer science skills in weekly camps that are targeted to their interests, including Roblox or LEGO. Our low camper-to-coach ratio ensures all students leave camp with new skills.
- Spanish Immersion Camp: Over five transformative weeks, students will dive into the vibrant world of Spanish language and culture.
Inclusion Sports Performance Training Summer Camp: We are dedicated to helping children develop their skills, build self-esteem, and inspire them to reach their full potential. All campers age 3 - 14 will enjoy engaging activities such as exciting activities such as gymnastics, learn to bike, basketball, and a variety of other multi-sport games. Throughout the camp, we’ll focus on developing fundamental movement skills, as well as enhancing social and life skills.
Iron Peak: This year, campers will spend their days learning and playing sports, adventuring on climbing, and aerial ropes courses, creating masterpieces in arts & crafts, experimenting in science, and much, much more!
Lawrenceville School: Set on the beautiful Lawrenceville School campus, DEAN Adventure Camps offers an all-inclusive, thoughtfully designed summer day camp for children ages 4–14. Campers spend their days building, cooking, designing, and exploring through hands-on programs like woodworking, culinary arts, machine sewing, innovation lab, and outdoor adventure,
McCarter Theatre Center 2026 Summer programs: Youth Summer Camp Ages 7-12 and Teen Conservatory Summer Camp Ages 13-17
Mercer County 4-H Camp: A tech-free, rustic camp experience focused on trying new things and creating a community dedicating to simply enjoying our week in the woods together.
Mercer County Golf Academy - Junior Summer Camps: Our instructors and counselors lead the campers through a series of skills, games, and exercises that develop confidence and passion for the game of golf with a camper to staff ratio at a maximum 6-1. All experience and skill level
Mercer County Technical Schools Summer Camps: will provide students with the opportunity to learn introductory skills, form new relationships with their peers, and learn more about themselves and their future goals by exploring different career pathways.
Nike Summer Camps: Local camps for Basketball, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Soccer, Swim and Running.
Painted Oak Summer Camp: a nature immersion program located at Washington Crossing. Based on research which continues to support that connecting children to the natural world benefits their bodies, minds, and spirits.
Pathways is Girls Who Code’s free, virtual summer program for high school girls to explore tech, build in-demand skills, and create projects that make a difference—no experience required!
The Pennington School: Summers at Pennington: We offer several program streams with a variety of camps to assist you and your child in finding the perfect option or combination of options to make this summer one of discovery and adventure!
Princeton Day School Summer Programs offers academic, athletic, and enrichment activities! Open to local students in Grades PK-12, we offer flexible schedules and access to our STEAM centers, athletic complex, garden, and unique ropes course.
Princeton Friends Summer Camp: Campers are offered days filled with adventure, creativity, and fun.
Princeton Garden Theatre Summer Camp Programs: The Garden Theatre is very excited to be hosting three different week-long film camp experiences this summer. Our “Elements of Film” curriculum will be returning for one week. We will also have two separate weeks of our “Intro to Filmmaking” curriculum.
Princeton Montessori School: SummerQuest for ages 18 months - 5 years: The summer program, although implemented with a Montessori approach and seasoned teachers, is unique and separate from the school year, in that the novel experiences we design for your children evolve around: outdoors, crafts, special visitors, theater, friendships, and favorite traditions like gardening, building teepees and forts in the woods,
Princeton University Summer Day Camp: The Campus Rec Day Camp features a variety of activities including arts and crafts, swim, guest entertainers and trips. Junior day camp is available for children entering grades 1 through 5. Senior camp is available for children entering grades 6 through 8.
Princeton University Sports Camps: Over 70 camps and clinics are held on the Princeton campus and each camp is directed by the Princeton University varsity coaches, with assistance from college coaches and players.
Registration is open for day and overnight campers.
Rambling Pines Summer Camp: a quality summer day camp near - with door to door busing.
Stuart Country Day School Summer Experience: Expanded weeks and age groups for Camp Stuart; full-day arts, athletics, and leadership camps; a new Counselor in Training (CIT) program; and lunch included.
The College of New Jersey: Precollege Programs: for high school students to explore potential careers in an intellectually stimulating environment.
Tomato Patch Youth Theater, Dance, Vocal & Visual Arts Programs at Kelsey Theatre
Summer Sessions for Ages 7-9. Registration opens Feb 9th!
Tulpehaking Nature Center Camps: Includes Aquatic Adventure Camp and Baldpate Camp (Titusville).
Ying Hua Summer Camps: Chinese Immersion/STEAM/STEM Camps
Waldorf School of Princeton: Our summer camp is the perfect opportunity for Grade School Students to practice and learn a variety of languages or develop a new skill for rising first through eighth graders. Rising Kindergarteners have the opportunity to explore our beautiful campus and immerse themselves in the world of creativity,
The Watershed Institute Summer Camp: Led by our amazing staff, our campers enjoy fresh air, make new friends, and receive a healthy dose of adventure.
The Watershed Institute Summer Prep Programs for HS Students: Explore the Science, Design, and Innovation Shaping a Sustainable Future. The Watershed invites high school students to spend a week or more learning directly from scientists, architects, and sustainability professionals who are shaping the future of our planet.