Maugham Moments

I am so pleased to be here with you at the beginning of this next chapter of Maugham Elementary School. We still have a few weeks before your children return, but I wanted to formally introduce myself to you.

I am mom to two of my favorite human beings in the world. My daughter, Sarina, is 11 years old and will be entering 6th grade. She's creative, artistic, silly and kind-hearted. My son, Isaac, is 6 years old and will be entering 1st grade. He’s funny, smart, and out-going. As a fellow traveler on this wild journey called parenting, I want you to know that I fully empathize and understand your heart. My husband, Jonathan, and I will be celebrating our 16th anniversary at the end of this summer. We met by chance on spring break in college and it's been quite an adventure ever since! I've got some stories to tell. I share all this with you because it is my hope to come to know your family's story and your dreams for your children throughout our years together.

This is the beginning of my 21st year in education. I spent 15 years in the classroom teaching 1st grade and 3rd grade in the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional school district and then kindergarten and 5th grade right here in Tenafly at Mackay. For the past 5 years, I have been an assistant principal and then a principal at the elementary level. My entire career has been embedded in the K-5 world and I have loved every minute of it. I believe deeply in the foundation of elementary education and the importance of the relationship between the school and home to solidify that foundation.

From day one as an educator, my "why", my reason for becoming a teacher and then an administrator has always centered around what is best for the children. They will always continue to be at the focal point of every decision that I make. Ensuring their safety, nurturing their social-emotional well-being, and supporting their highest academic potential will remain central to how I will steer our ship. Dr. Ferrara has been instrumental in my transition to Maugham and I thank her wholeheartedly for her gracious guidance and support.

I would like you to save the date for Thursday, August 21st at 9 am for some coffee and conversation. I would love the chance to meet you and your children. If you’re interested in attending, please fill out this form so that we can get a head count for some light refreshments.

Our monthly parent newsletter will be called Maugham Moments. This newsletter will contain important dates, reminders, and school news.

In addition, I have also started a new Instagram account. Please follow @maughamprincipal. I will regularly post pictures of school activities and happenings.

If you would like to set up an appointment to meet with me, please call the school at 201-816-7705 or by emailing Mrs. Saxenian - lsaxenian@tenafly.k12.nj.us.

We have revised and updated our school handbook to reflect the most pertinent information for parents and students to know about school operations. Please take some time to read through the document as there is a wealth of information regarding the upcoming school year including arrival instructions for the first day of school, staff changes, lunch procedures and more!

Maugham Parent/Student Handbook 2025-2026

I will send another communication closer to first day of school highlighting your "need to knows" for the first few days of school.

I know that it is always a highly anticipated moment when your child finds out who their teacher will be. Please know that Dr. Ferrara and the staff put careful care, time and consideration into the placement of your children. The class placements will stand firm unless there has been a clerical oversight.

Class placement will be available on Friday, August 22nd at 3:00 pm through the Genesis Parent Portal. All forms must be completed before you are able to access the placement. Parent forms and permissions will be open on Monday, August 18th.

Please know that attempting to access your account multiple times without the correct username and password will lock you out of the system. If you need technical support with accessing your Genesis account, please email techsupport@tenafly.k12.nj.us.

Find the school supplies drop-off date and other helpful information on this link.

Please note that our Kindergarten teacher Ms. Mullen, has changed her name to Ms. Baranello.

August 14 - Kindergarten Pop Social, 6 pm

August 27 - First Day of School

September 1 - Labor Day, Schools Closed

September 18 - Back to School Night

September 23-24 - Rosh Hashanah, Schools Closed

September 30 - Picture Day