Issue 13: April 2, 2026

April 2, 2026

As we wrap up an awesome month of March, I want to take a moment to thank our students, staff, and families for their continued hard work and positive energy throughout the building. We are looking forward to a well-deserved Spring Break to rest and recharge! Please note that schools will be closed from Friday, April 3 through Sunday, April 12, and we will welcome students back on Monday, April 13.

I would also like to share how incredibly proud I am of the students who participated in our Spelling Bee. Their confidence, preparation, and determination were truly impressive, and they represented our school with excellence.

I wish all of our families a relaxing, safe, and productive break! We look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready for the final stretch of the school year!

Warm regards,

Dr. Mendez

Congratulations to all of our students who participated in this year’s schoolwide Spelling Bee. Your hard work, preparation, and willingness to challenge yourselves were truly impressive. We are proud of each and every one of you for stepping up and giving it your best.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to our families for your continued support and encouragement. Events like this are made possible through that partnership.

A special congratulations to our Spelling Bee winners for the 2025–2026 school year:

• 3rd Place: Sophia

• 2nd Place: Robinson

• 1st Place (and our 2024-2025 Reigning Champion ): Saba

Outstanding work by all of our participants, and a well-deserved recognition for our winners.

We are already looking forward to next year’s competition, especially seeing our current second graders take the stage as third graders!

Have a wonderful and restful spring break, and once again, great job everyone!

Mrs. D'Elia

The GAPPS classes of School #6 submitted abstract watercolor paintings to the JCC of the Palisades in Tenafly. They worked together in a collaborative group in Art class with Ms. Wich and was able to visit the gallery in February to see their work on display. Everyone was excited and proud of the students' achievements!

The "Art for All" Art Exhibition at the JCC of the Palisades in Tenafly features artistic talents of children with disabilities. This show celebrates more than creative talent- it honors inclusion, accessibility, and the belief that everyone deserves a platform to be seen, valued, and celebrated.

I am thankful to all those involved in helping make this experience for the children a memorable one.

- Ms. Wich, Art Teacher

Yoga club with Ms. Smith!

Thank you to everyone who has visited the Garfield Public Library to view our students' artwork! Student artwork is on display through April.

To help kids manage emotions and focus, use rainbow breathing with these steps:

• Find a quiet space where the child can sit comfortably.

• Instruct them to take a deep breath in through their nose.

• As they breathe out visualize a rainbow stretching across the sky.

• Encourage them to breathe in for the colors red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple.

• Have them exhale slowly, imagining the rainbow getting brighter with each breath.

• Repeat the cycle for several minutes, allowing them to relax and center themselves.

🌸 Spring Break Reminder from the School Nurse 🌸

Dear Families,

As we head into spring break, we wish all of our students and families a safe and enjoyable time! ☀️🌷

When we return to school, please make sure your children are dressed appropriately for the warmer weather. Our building does not have air conditioning, and higher temperatures can affect students’ comfort and ability to focus in class. 👕💧

Please also plan to send your child with a water bottle each day to help them stay hydrated. 🧃

We kindly remind families to submit updated physical exams and current immunization records if they have not already done so. 📄💉

Safety Reminders for Spring Break:

• Apply sunscreen when outdoors ☀️
• Stay hydrated 💦
• Practice good hand hygiene 🧼
• Supervise children around water and outdoor activities 🏊‍♂️

If you have any updates or concerns regarding your child’s health, please feel free to reach out.

Wishing you all a safe, healthy, and relaxing spring break! 😊

Warmly,

Nurse Falk

School Nurse

ALS #6

April 3: Good Friday Schools Closed

April 6 - 10: Spring Break - School Closed

April 16: Spring Picture Day (Prepay only)

April 21 and 22: Half Day Sessions

April 27: NJSLA Testing Begins Grades 3-5

Drawings by 4th Grade