The Friday Focus
March 6, 2026
From the Office of the Superintendent
TOMORROW: Join us for a Morning of AI Exploration! Saturday, March 7th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, HVCHS Media Center. Explore the world of Artificial Intelligence through hands-on breakout sessions hosted by Dr. Rosetta Treece and our EdTech team. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to dive into advanced creative uses and school policy, there is something for everyone. Open to all parents, residents, and business owners. Please see the flyer for full session details and the registration link.
TOMORROW: The STRIVE PTO Resources Fair & Summer Camp Expo March 7th, from 2:30–5:00 PM, HVCHS. Stop by to learn about the many resources and supports available in our community, including therapists, agencies, recreation programs, and more. Families can also learn about local camps and browse the Used Book Sale.
Adults who are interested in working with the Hopewell Valley Youth Collective are invited to join us every Tuesday in March at 6pm at the Hopewell Presbyterian Church. The Collective is a brand new youth-led, youth-focused organization in Hopewell Valley, committed to creating a space for young people to build relationships, express their passions and ideas, and to be empowered as leaders in this community. No need to RSVP, just come when you can. Questions, call or text Aaron at 609-209-9264 or email aaron@hopewellyouth.com.
Pomptonian Food Services is hiring for cashiers and general workers. Apply by contacting Lea Jones at leajonesmuhammad@hvrsd.org
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.
Parents of Incoming Kindergarten and First Grade Students!
Safety Town will be held from June 22-June 26, Bear Tavern Elementary, 9th-12th
Safety Town is a one-week summer program offered to incoming kindergarten and first-grade students, to provide a realistic, child-sized town with miniature streets, buildings, crosswalks, and working traffic lights. Students will navigate the safety town setting on a provided bicycle while learning the importance of bicycle, pedestrian, and vehicular safety. The program is directed by YMCA staff members with assistance from local youth volunteers and features visits by police, firefighters, paramedics, and other local first responders and community members.
Mercer County Libraries are offering students support for College & Career
with resources including:
- Learning Library Express: An easy-to-use e-learning platform featuring online tutorials, practice tests and e-books to help you achieve your educational and professional goals. LearningExpress Library offers tools and resources to help you search for jobs, build workplace skills and prepare for career certification exams. You'll also find college and grad school admissions test prep, GED® test prep, U.S. citizenship test prep and more.
- College Application Essay Review: Our staff will read and review your college application essay and offer recommendations that concentrate on the content, focus, and direction of your essay. For example, have you addressed the prompt, would the essay benefit from a new introduction, does your essay have one clear focus?
The HVCHS Winter Musical Pippin!
Final Weekend for a night of song and dance featuring an extraordinary cast!
Performances are in the Performing Arts Center at Hopewell Valley Central High School.
Buy tickets HERE or at the door on the night of the show
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.
NJGPA Testing & Special Schedules: 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.
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; no additional entries will be accepted. If the 250-entry limit has not been reached by March 31, the contest will then close on March 31, 2026, 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 6 & 7: Pippin, 7 p.m.
March 7: All Night Volleyball, 10:30 p.m.
March 13: Sophomore Night Out
March 17, 19, 20: NJGPA Testing
March 18: Early Dismissal
March 20: HVEF Above and Beyond Celebration
March 27: Spring Pep Rally
"Shamrock and Shenanigans Family Night", Friday, March 13, 2026 from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm.
$5.00 per person includes pizza, refreshments and family fun!
This is a family event. All students should be accompanied by an adult. Complete the google form at https://bit.ly/TMSshamrock by March 11th to reserve a spot for your family!
Reservations are not final until payment has been received.
March is Youth Art Month(YAM) in New Jersey: and one of our sixth grade students, Kuhu Sachdevas' artwork was selected for the NJ State YAM Exhibit at the Grounds for Sculpture, which opens on 3.7! In addition, nine of our TMS artists will have their artwork on display at the Mercer County YAM Exhibit at Artworks Trenton from 3/11-4/14th. Congratulations to these students!
Football Club: is available to any 8th Grade student who is interested in playing, watching or learning more about football. It will be held in Mr. Philipsheck's classroom every C day. Students can sign up on SmartPass.
Thanks to the Hopewell Valley Education Foundation, Timberlane will be hosting Dr, Maynard Okereke, Founder of Hip Hop Science, on 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 will host our annual Cutting Hair Because We Care on March 18th: supporting the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and ChildrenWithHairLoss.org. Students can “brave the shave” to raise funds for childhood cancer research or donate long hair to help children experiencing hair loss. Local salons will be on site to make it a special day.
HERE is the link to the presentation
Our St. Baldrick's TMS Team 2026 can be found HERE. Thank you for your support!
2026 TMS Spring Sports
- Registration and medical forms for Spring Sports are due by Friday March 13th! Please click here to access the registration page and print medical forms. Any student who is not registered and does not have either a physical form or health history update form on file with the school nurses will not be able to try out or practice until they do.
- 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
BT St. Baldrick’s Day March 13th! There is still time to join our St. Baldrick’s Team! Your donation or volunteer support are helpful. Here is the team link: Bear Tavern ES. Thank you!
BT Baldrick’s Sunnies and Scrunchies -Check out the flyer to buy a bow. Be ready for the Big Day!
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!
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 as Urban Air).
• 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!
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
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*
3/13 - BT St. Baldrick’s Day / Preschool Collab Day (No PEECH)
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
4/17: Paint and Sip at HV Vineyards with BT Parents & Staff
Principal’s Brettell's Newsletter - Hopewell’s Happenings
Hopewell Elementary School Website
Hygiene Kit Collection: From March 2nd-13th, the HES Lily PALS are collecting hygiene items to support The Chubby’s Project, a local organization dedicated to helping families in need. We invite all students to participate by donating assigned items based on their grade level. For a list of grade-level items and more details link HERE.
On Wednesday, March 18th, during our SEL Day of Cooperation, students will work together to pack the 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. 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:
3/13: Trimester 2 Ends, Preschool Collab Day (No PEECH)
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: Mismatched Socks Day
3/20: HVEF’s Above & Beyond Celebration, 6:30-9:30pm, Hopewell Valley Vineyards
3/21: HES Mini-Musical Community Performance (2:00pm)
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 (details to follow)
March Kicked Off a Month of Reading Fun with an Author Visit, Read-A-Fun & Book Fair!
Our annual read-a-thon "Read-A-Fun" is underway! Student login information and instructions were sent home with students. Read-A-Fun is like a jog-a-thon, except your child will be reading books instead of running laps, and earning pledges based on how much they read. Everything is tracked online, which makes inviting sponsors and logging books and minutes much easier! Thank you for your support – let the reading race begin! 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.
- The Spring SB Book Fair Is Next Week March 9-13! Student preview days will be Monday (3/9) and Tuesday (3/10) during school, and in-school shopping will be open Wednesday-Friday (3/11-3/13) of next week. Family shopping night will take place on Thursday, March 12th, from 4pm-7pm. We need your help to make it a success! Click here to volunteer. Click here for additional details.
Strive PTO Fair on Sat, March 7, from 2:30-5pm at CHS
Come out and support the STRIVE PTO Fair this Saturday, 3/7, 2:30-5pm at Central High School for a fun afternoon of arts & crafts, games, sensory play, raffles, and used book sale.
Please help the Student Council meet its goal of making 105 Giggle & Wiggle Bags, which will be donated to the Millhill Family & Community Center. Click here to view the items needed by grade.
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
Mon, 3/9-Fri, 3/13: Spring SB Book Fair
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 HS students Read to Classes
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
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!
Toll Gate Grammar School is running a 2026 Reading Raiser through Apr 1st.
A Reading-Raiser is like a jog-a-thon, except your child will be reading books instead of running laps, and earning pledges based on how much they read. Everything is tracked online, which makes inviting sponsors and logging reading much easier!
Here are two videos that explain how to participate in the Reading-Raiser:
- 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
Your child has received a private online account at https://app.readafun.com/ where he/she will log reading. Parent and student instructions on how to use the website have been sent home. Follow this link to view instructions on how to use your parent account: https://app.readafun.com/guides/parent?d=1048. Teachers distributed your students' login information this past week. Please contact Eva McKenna at tgreadafun@gmail.com if you have any questions. Thank you so much for your support and Happy Reading!
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, 3/6: Author Laurie Wallmark Visits Toll Gate
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
Friday, 4/24: Green Week Student Expo
Saturday, 4/25: PTO Spring Social
Community Programs & Events
Hopewell Basketball Association: Registration for Spring Hoops is open. We have limited spots left and they are filling up fast—don’t miss your chance to get on a roster.
Important Dates: Assessments: Wednesday, 3/11 & Wednesday, 3/18 Registration Deadline: 3/15
Register here: Sign Up for Spring Hoops
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 Township Recreation: Spring & Summer Program Guide for upcoming programs, including:
"Sockey" Spring Session at Toll Gate: A safe variant of Indoor Hockey - played with "sock" covered sticks. No experience necessary!
Hopewell Valley YMCA Volleyball Skills Clinics for Boys and Girls: A volleyball skills development program - whether you are a beginner, intermediate or advanced player. An active YMCA membership is needed for participation.
Grades 6-8 Tuesdays, April 7-May 19, 6:30-8:30pm at SB Gym
Grades 9-12, Thursdays, April 9-May 21, 6:30-8:30pm at SB Gym
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.
Cotsen Children's Library: Annual 250 for 50 Writing Contest! In this annual 350 for 50 writing contest writers ages 9-16 are challenged to write a 350-word story that includes the sentence “Immediately, it was upside down.” (just 345 words left to go)! 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.
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
Princeton University Art Museum: Upcycling, March 7th, 10am-1pm Drop in
Saturdays are for young makers in the Creativity Labs! Stop by and create a collage inspired by the artist El Anatsui.
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.
Trenton Makes and Candlelight Events Jazz All Stars at Trenton City Museum, Cadwalader Park, 3/6 at 6:30pm. Featuring the Omeed Nyman Quartet, in conjunction with the Trenton Makes Jazz art exhibit.
Terhune Orchards Read and Explore Program is a fun and educational program that combines hands-on activities with listening to a story. Pre-registration is required.
- March 7th: Birds and Birdhouse
- March 17th: Getting Ready for Spring!
- March 21: Getting Ready for Spring!
Open Mic Night for teens only, Princeton Public Library, Friday, March 6th @ 7pm:
Students in Princeton-area high schools are invited to perform at this teens-only event
The Pennington Public Library Presents: "Relating with Kids & Tech: Building Bridges in a Digital World," featuring Dr. Jill Richards on Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 pm via Zoom.
Registration & Info Page: PenningtonLibrary.org/KidsAndTech
Join Hopewell Valley YMCA Community members and families on March 12, 2026, as the NJ Devils take on the Calgary Flames. Enjoy a discount by visiting the following link for the game. Each ticket includes admission to the game plus a New Jersey Devils T-shirt, making it a great night out for members, families, and friends!
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. Then, student leaders will guide participants as they create electrical circuits and use machine learning to teach robots to detect objects. Participants will even get the chance to drive a robot! Recommended for ages 8+. Register: www.PenningtonLibrary.org/RoboticsWorkshop26
Princeton University Concerts Little Listeners: Time for Music Saturday, March 14, 2026 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, Richardson Auditorium. 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! Let's make time for music together! Curated for kids ages 3-6. Relaxed format for neurodiverse audiences
Purchase tickets on concerts.princeton.edu
Hopewell Recreation is offering two different Spring Break Programs during March 30-April 3:
*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 Township Municipal Complex
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—that keep every day fresh and exciting. Along the way, they’ll develop new skills, spark creativity, and practice teamwork in a playful, supportive environment. Perfect for curious young performers eager to explore the magic of theater and make new friends!
$5 Family Matinees, Saturdays, The Princeton Garden Theatre
Inclusion Sports Performance Training:
At ISPT, we take pride in prioritizing the needs of all kids, regardless of their abilities, in our recreational programs. We are committed to providing the best possible experience for every student, recognizing that each one learns in their own unique way and at their own pace.
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.
Pricing: Early bird pricing available until March 1
Registration: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/Pennington/LHT5K
Sponsorship: https://lhtrail.org/5k-sponsors/
Pennington Day 2026 is on Saturday May 16th and volunteers are needed at at every level of time-commitment - thank you!
Kelsey Theatre at Mercer County Community College: Clue- The Musical, 3/6-3/15.
This interactive whodunit features all of your favorite characters – Colonel Mustard, Professor Plum, and more – as they try to solve a murder with countless possible outcomes
Music Mountain Theatre, Young Audience 2026 Season: Shrek, Through 3/22
Cure Arena Upcoming Shows: 2/28 Harlem Globetrotters, 3/12-3/15 Disney on Ice "Frozen & Encanto"
Save the Date for Hopewell Township's 3rd Annual Cultural Festival on Saturday, May 2 from 11-2 at Woolsey Park! Celebrate the many 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.
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
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.