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OTS Updates

From the Desk of Dr. Mitchell

OTS Updates From the Desk of Dr. Mitchell
OTS UpdatesFrom the Desk of Dr. Mitchell

OTS Updates Newsletter OTS Updates Newsletter

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April 17, 2025


Dear OTS Friends and Families,


As we head into Spring Break, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued support and partnership throughout the school year. It’s hard to believe how quickly the year is flying by!

This time of year can be a much-needed opportunity for everyone to pause, rest, and recharge. Whether your plans include travel, time with family, or simply enjoying a slower pace at home, I hope the break brings your family joy, good health, and meaningful moments together.


When we return, we’ll be entering the final stretch of the school year—a time filled with exciting activities, growth, and reflection as well as NJSLA testing! We look forward to finishing the year strong and celebrating all that our students have accomplished.


Before we go, I want to shout out one last time to our students, staff, and parent volunteers who made Moana an amazing performance for the Tewksbury community. I also want to thank our 7th grade team led by Mrs. Zisk for putting together what was a fun and eventful Camp Mason trip for our 7th grade students. These kinds of experiences become memories that last a lifetime for our kids and I'm thankful for all the support provided to make these things possible for OTS students.


Wishing you a safe, happy, and restful Spring Break!

Thank you,


Dr. Mitchell


Here are some important reminders for students and parents:

  • April 17 Early Dismissal

  • April 18-28 School Closed - Spring Break

  • April 29 - School Begins

  • May 5-14 NJSLA State Testing (Science, ELA, and Math)

  • May 20 Art, STEM, Music, and World Language Student Exhibition (before Spring Concert)

  • May 20 OTS Spring Concert

  • May 23 Early Dismissal

  • May 26 School Closed Memorial Day

  • May 28-30 DC Trip

  • June 11 OTS Field Day

  • June 13 OTS Awards Ceremony

  • June 13 OTS 8th Grade Promotion

  • June 13 Last Day of School

OTS Staff Highlights March 2025 - Science Teachers OTS Staff Highlights March 2025 - Science Teachers

5th Grade Science - Mrs. Fiscarelli

Fifth graders began the year learning about the work that scientists do, practicing making observations and asking questions, and by learning about phenomena. Students have studied the transfer of energy and matter in ecosystems and about matter and its properties. Fifth graders have also practiced engineering process skills through a variety of hands-on STEM challenges.


Fifth graders are currently nearing the end of their study of matter and its interactions. This week and next week fifth graders are learning about mixtures and solutions, physical and chemical changes to matter, and the Law of Conservation of Matter. Students are engaging with the concepts with a variety of hands-on investigations including mixtures and solutions stations, an investigation in which students will use physical properties of matter to separate a mixture of sand, salt, and iron filings, and one in which students use what they have learned about matter to identify a series of white powders. Fifth graders are also excited to be participating in Arizona State University's March Mammal Madness virtual Tournament of species. Students worked with 7th and 8th-grade buddies to research one of the organism competitors and to create a Pokémon style battle card with information about their species. Students also created a bracket using information about the organisms to predict the winners for each round in the competition. We are excited to follow the tournament and to see how each matchup of species plays out!


This spring students will study Earth's systems to learn how the atmosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere interact. Students will also study astronomy topics to learn about the interactions between the Earth, moon, and Sun. We'll have some fun with related STEM challenges such as designing an earthquake-resistant home from cardboard and making solar ovens.

6th Grade Science - Mrs. Olla

This year in 6th grade science we started off the year with pollinators and ecosystems. The students were given an opportunity to create a robotic pollinator. During October, the students participating in Katmai National Park's, "Fat Bear Week,' where 128 Grazer was the ultimate winner. For a week straight, we researched the bears from Alaska and completed class brackets, as well as voted online for the 2024 Fat Bear Champion! We then explored the Chesapeake Bay Area, Coral Reefs and the effects of temperature and human impact on these ecosystems. The students enjoyed the live footage and timelapse photography in the documentary, Chasing Coral.


Currently, students are studying Physics with Newton's Laws and Forces. Recently, the students explored the properties of magnetism and simple circuits. In class, we try to be as hands-on with stations and investigations as much as possible. The students love my video selections for quick demonstrations of the concepts and often try to explore better options to add to my collection.

March Mammal Madness also just began. This event was started 13 years ago by Arizona State University and followed a similar format to College Basketball March Madness but with various organisms. The student began this project by partnering with 8th-grade students to research the competitors and create trading cards complete with battle rankings.


The sixth graders were super excited to visit the Museum of Natural History as this year's field trip as they completed a scavenger of Science and History. One of the end-of-the-year units will be on natural disasters and creating one of their choices with a homemade project to share and/or erupt at school on a STEM DAY.


On early dismissal days before long weekends and breaks, the whole grade participates in STEM Days. On Halloween, we built pumpkin launchers and catapults, and flying ghosts. Before Thanksgiving, they created floats and paraded around the hallway. Leading into the winter break, there was a multitude of hands-on challenges to complete. More STEM Days to come before the end of the year. The students truly enjoy the hands-on activities and getting messy!

7th Grade Science - Mr. Lovering

Our seventh graders have been learning about chemistry through physical and chemical reactions. Students have learned about lab safety, identifying key characteristics, and what elements look like on an atomic scale. Students had the opportunity to design and build their own molecule 3D models.


Seventh graders are currently working with microscopes to identify and analyze cells, both plant and animal. Students recently got the opportunity to swab their own cheek cells and look at them under the microscope.


Later this year, our seventh graders will get to investigate genes. Through a series of engaging activities, laboratory investigations, and model-based learning, students will develop a deep understanding of how structural changes to genes, known as mutations, can affect proteins and ultimately impact the structure and function of organisms.

8th Grade Science - Mrs. Wu

Since the start of the school year, 8th-grade students have been on an epic journey through time and science! We kicked off with a walk through geologic time, explored evolution, and studied super bacteria as proof of natural selection. Then, we tackled human impact on the environment before shifting gears to motion and forces. Now, we're diving into free fall and terminal velocity—watching real-life daredevils like Felix Baumgartner and Alan Eustace jump from space! Our final adventure will focus on energy—kinetic, potential, and thermal—as students engineer Rube Goldberg machines and design mini igloos to save an ice cube penguin!


Our 8th-grade students have been having a blast exploring motion and forces through hands-on activities! Recently, they participated in a skateboard lab, investigating how the steepness of a ramp affects speed. They then applied this knowledge to real-world engineering, discussing its importance in designing roads, bridges, and wheelchair ramps.


Now, we’re diving into forces, using Newton’s Laws of Motion to analyze incredible feats like Felix Baumgartner and Alan Eustace’s record-breaking space jumps. Students are also conducting hands-on investigations, launching balloon rockets and creating impact craters to see physics in action.


Coming up, our forces unit will set the stage for an exciting exploration of energy! Students will dive into kinetic and potential energy by designing Rube Goldberg machines that showcase energy transfer in action. Later, we’ll wrap up the year with a hands-on thermal energy challenge—students will be given a budget to design and build an igloo to protect their ice cube penguin. Their creations will be put to the test in a heat box… will their penguin survive? Stay tuned to find out!


Students are doing a fantastic job transitioning from life science to the more math-based world of physical science! I strive to keep science exciting by connecting lessons to real-life scenarios and exploring the natural world around us. Whether we're investigating motion, energy, or engineering challenges, my goal is to spark curiosity and make learning both meaningful and fun!

Raising Resilient Children Raising Resilient Children

Raising Resilient Kids

A book I recently read is resonating with me these days, and I wanted to share a podcast I heard discussing this book and its relevance for parents and our kids. Below are some FAQs from this podcast.


Frequently Asked Questions on Fostering Resilience and Independence in Children:


1. Why is it important for parents to focus on fostering resilience and independence in their children? Focusing on resilience and independence equips children with essential life skills needed to navigate the complexities and challenges of adulthood. By allowing them to experience manageable adversity, develop problem-solving skills, and learn to cope with difficulties, parents prepare their children to face future obstacles with confidence and adaptability, rather than setting them up for failure through overprotection.


2. What role does "manageable adversity" play in a child's development? Manageable adversity is crucial for building problem-solving skills, fostering a growth mindset, and promoting adaptability. When children overcome challenges, even small ones, they learn that they are capable of handling difficulties, which in turn builds their confidence and resilience. Reflecting on past challenges that led to personal growth can highlight the importance of these experiences.


3. Instead of constantly protecting children, what should parents focus on? Instead of constant protection, parents should prioritize building their children's coping skills. This involves teaching them how to manage their emotions and reactions to various situations. By developing effective coping mechanisms, children become more self-reliant and better equipped to handle life's inevitable stressors without needing constant intervention from adults.


4. How does over-supervising children hinder their development? Over-supervising children limits their opportunities to develop problem-solving abilities and make their own decisions. By constantly intervening and directing their actions, parents prevent children from learning from their mistakes and building confidence in their own capabilities. Allowing age-appropriate risks and stepping back to let children navigate situations independently is essential for fostering self-reliance.


5. What is the value of allowing children to experience natural consequences? Allowing children to experience the natural results of their choices is a powerful teaching tool. It helps them understand the direct link between their actions and outcomes, fostering a sense of responsibility and improving their decision-making skills. These experiences provide valuable lessons that direct intervention might not achieve.


6. What are some common cognitive distortions that children (and adults) might experience, and how can parents help challenge them? Common cognitive distortions include catastrophizing (assuming the worst), black-and-white thinking (seeing things as all good or all bad), and overgeneralization (drawing broad conclusions from limited experiences). Parents can help their children identify and challenge these thought patterns by encouraging them to consider alternative perspectives, look for evidence that contradicts their negative thoughts, and think about more realistic outcomes.


7. What is the ultimate goal of raising children according to this perspective, and how can parents actively work towards it? The ultimate goal is to raise resilient and independent adults who are well-prepared for the challenges of the real world, including college and beyond. Parents can actively work towards this by creating opportunities for their children to practice essential life skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, emotional regulation, and independent decision-making. This involves encouraging resilience, free-thinking, and independence, while also challenging cognitive distortions and avoiding excessive "safetyism."

Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying

At Old Turnpike School, we are committed to fostering a safe and respectful learning environment for all students. We take harassment, intimidation, and bullying (HIB) seriously and have proactive measures in place to prevent and address these behaviors.

When our school does an HIB investigation, parent/guardians of students who were named in the HIB 338 form will receive a notification. Receiving a notification about a possible HIB (Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying) investigation involving your child can feel overwhelming, even upsetting. It’s completely normal to want an immediate explanation and to defend your child. We understand these feelings and are here to help guide you through this process.

#1 Before reaching out to district staff, please take a moment to speak calmly with your child. Helping them process what happened and discussing ways to prevent future incidents can be very beneficial. It’s also essential to remember that, per school policy, there should be no retaliation from parents or students related to the investigation.

#2 Click here for the letter that is emailed out to possible student offenders. Please know that this notification simply means that our staff is thoroughly looking into the matter to ensure a fair outcome. The Principals and Anti-Bullying Specialist staff can not speak to the incident.

#3 Please know that NJ's HIB law is complicated with many criteria. The definition of an HIB may be different than what you may perceive to be bullying. The law deals with both on-campus and off-campus conduct.

#4 Even if a HIB investigation turns out not to be confirmed as an HIB DOES NOT mean that there may not be consequences for the events that led to the HIB investigation. Our school has a Code of Conduct and some issues are dealt with through the Code of Conduct, not HIB. Parents/guardians need to know that while you may want to know the consequences administered as a result of the investigation, we are only allowed to share this information with a parent/guardian of that child. It is important to uphold and respect the privacy of all of our students.


We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in supporting a safe, respectful environment for all students.

Whittemore Summer Camps Whittemore Summer Camps

Click here to register and learn more.

Lunch and Recess Lunch and Recess

Lunches

Maschio's Food Services, Inc. is the contracted lunch provider at OTS. See the following links for more information about the lunch service provided by Maschio's as well as PaySchools, our point of sale service system. You can find their menu on our school website at the following link:


https://tewksburyschools.nutrislice.com/


Maschios Welcome Letter

Lunch Price List

Snack Price List

PaySchools Central


Recess

All 5th grade students have recess every day

Grade 6-8 students have recess one day a week

Arrival and Dismissal for Busses Arrival and Dismissal for Busses

STUDENTS MAY NOT ENTER THE SCHOOL BUILDING BEFORE 7:15 AM

You will receive an email in the near future with your child’s bus assignment and schedule from the district’s transportation coordinator, Bob Hoffman (bhoffmanjr@tewksburyschools.org).


Dismissal will be at 2:30pm and students taking the bus will go to their lockers and leave the school to their assigned bus.


Student and bus driver safety are of the utmost importance and are taken with extreme seriousness. Students are under the authority of the Tewksbury Board of Education when riding on a school bus. It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide for the safety and welfare of pupils at all times.


  • The school bus and bus stop are extensions of the school day. All student Code of Conduct and expectations are extended to their time at bus stops and on the school bus. School bus transportation is a privilege. The bus driver is completely in charge of the bus and its riders at all times.
  • Students must comply with all the rules and directions of the driver.
  • Students are given assigned seats on their bus.
  • Should a violation of the rules take place, a bus conduct report will be submitted to the school’s administration.
  • Consequences will follow if a student(s) is violating the code of conduct on the way to school and/or on the way home from school. Consequences could include suspension from the bus.


All students are assigned to a bus route and bus stop at the beginning of the year. Changing these routes and stops is not permitted. Only students officially assigned to a bus may enter or ride that bus. Any questions or concerns regarding transportation should be directed to the district’s transportation coordinator, Bob Hoffman (bhoffmanjr@tewksburyschools.org).


If you are going to pick up your child early from school, please inform the office by an email to Dee Krowl dkrowl@tewksburyschools.org or a call to Dee Krowl at 908-439-2010 ext. 4221.

Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures for Cars Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures for Cars

STUDENTS MAY NOT ENTER THE SCHOOL BUILDING BEFORE 7:15 AM

Doors to the school open at 7:15am. Students are not to be dropped off before this time as there is no supervision nor protection from the elements until then. Please understand that traffic does become heavy at times at drop off, so please plan accordingly if you are choosing to bring your child(ren) to school.


The school day begins at 7:35am. The door to school will close at that time so staff can begin their school day. If students are not in homeroom at that time, they may be marked late to school. Any cars dropping off students late will need their students to buzz into the main doors. Below is a diagram for Car Drop Off and Pick Up Procedures.

OTS Bell Schedule and School Calendar OTS Bell Schedule and School Calendar

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School Calendar 2024-25

OTS Marking Period Dates OTS Marking Period Dates

Specials/Cycles Marking Periods Specials/Cycles Marking Periods

OTS Clubs OTS Clubs

Students at OTS can participate in many clubs. Students who want to partake in the clubs at OTS must register first before showing up at the club. Students can register for a club by clicking the OTS Club Registration button below. Clubs must have at least 10 students fully registered to run. If there aren't 10 students, the club will be canceled. (A list of the club offerings with club advisors, days of the week, dates being run, and description is below the registration link. More clubs may be added throughout the year).


Once a student has registered, they will require a signed permission form (please click and download or use the form your child brought home) to be submitted to the specific club advisor before they can participate in the club. Students should listen to morning and afternoon announcements for all updates on clubs and activities. Please contact the advisor with any questions or concerns.


If a club is canceled, we will make an announcement to our students in school that that particular club(s) are canceled and students should contact their parent(s)/guardian(s). Students can contact their parent(s)/guardian(s) the following way:


  1. Come down to the main office and call them to inform them the club is canceled and they need to be picked up or will take the bus home
  2. Email them to inform them the club is canceled and they need to be picked up or will take the bus home
  3. If they have a cell phone, they can ask a teacher if they use their cell phone to inform them the club is canceled and they need to be picked up or will take the bus home



OTHER ORGANIZATIONS MAY BE SPONSORING CLUBS AND WILL BE SHARED WHEN AVAILABLE

OTS Club Registration

2024-25 OTS Clubs 2024-25 OTS Clubs

Battle of the Books - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 20 students

Advisors: Ms. Magro and Mrs. Mason

Students work together to read a list of predetermined books. We meet to discuss the books and strategize, culminating in an exciting county-wide competition, where students face off against teams from other schools. Last year, one of our teams took home first place at the 2024 competition!


Half Year Club - Dates: TBD

Craft Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 25 students

Advisors: Mrs. Krowl and Ms. Mendralla

Each meeting will focus on a different craft project while students will have the opportunity to learn new skills and techniques. One week may involve painting pottery while another could be dedicated to making chocolate desserts or holiday candles. Provides opportunities for self expression, stress relief and skill development.


Half Year Club on Mondays -

Dates: 3/17, 3/24, 4/14, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2

Jewelry Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 20 students

Advisor: Ms. Polinger

Unique club offering the opportunity for students to explore jewelry making. Members will learn a variety of techniques including beading, working with polymer clay, resin crafting, and basic construction methods. Sessions are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, allowing students to develop a new skill in a creative, supportive environment.


Full Year Club on Mondays -

Dates: 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/21, 10/28, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 1/6, 1/13, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/24, 3/3, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/14, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/30

Theater Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 12 students

Advisor: Mr. Mortenson

Introduction to the Performing Arts. Students will take the script of a play through all the necessary steps required to turn it from the page into a full production. Participants will take part in all aspects of the collaborative process of staging a show, from the design process to casting, rehearsing, costuming, lighting, and the final staging of the play. Students will explore cooperation, collaboration, and the celebration of everyone’s unique talents and skills, culminating our efforts towards one common goal.


Half Year Club on Tuesdays-

Dates: 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17

Homework Helper Tutoring Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 25 students

Advisors: Ms. Mendralla and Ms. Amato

Assisting students wanting help with homework, or students wishing for a quiet place to do homework, with assistance available. Drop-ins Welcome - Students DO NOT need a permission form for this club but are expected to communicate with their parents the days they want to drop in to this club.


Full Year Club on Wednesdays -

Dates: 9/11, 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/16, 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11

Homework Helper Tutoring Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 25 students

Advisors: Ms. Mendralla and Ms. Amato

Assisting students wanting help in ELA, or students wishing for a quiet place to do homework, with assistance available. Drop-ins Welcome - Students DO NOT need a permission form for this club but are expected to communicate with their parents the days they want to drop in to this club.


Full Year Club on Thursdays -

Dates: 9/5, 9/19, 9/26, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/14, 11/21, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29, 6/5

Gaming Club - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 25 students

Advisor: Ms. Polinger

Video Game Club offering the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of video games on the Nintendo Switch, classic NES, and Sega consoles. Come share our passion for gaming, engage in friendly competitions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts in a supportive and fun environment.


Half Year or Full Year Club on Fridays -

Dates: 9/20, 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/15, 11/22, 12/6, 12/13, 1/3, 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/7, 2/21, 2/28, 3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28, 4/4, 4/11, 5/2, 5/9, 5/16, 5/30

Model UN and Youth and Government - Grades 5-8 - Maximum of 25 students

Advisor: Ms. Mendralla

Through public speaking, critical thinking, and in-depth research, the Model UN and Youth and Government experience allows students to cultivate skills and enrich their global and local affairs knowledge. Model UN and Youth and Government is dedicated to empowering young Americans with tools and experiences that prepare them to be the next generation of leaders. There are student fees for conferences (there will be two weekend conferences). Conferences are for students in grades 6-8 only but 5th graders can participate in the school but not the weekend conferences. Email Ms. Mendralla for any questions.


Full Year Club on Tuesdays -

Dates: 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17, 1/7, 1/10, 1/11, 1/12, 1/21, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22

Art Club

Advisor: Mrs. Brinkoff

Students will be creating 2D pieces that include large scale paintings in acrylic. The students will also build 3D pieces using cardboard, foam, wood, and recycled materials. Students will be encouraged to play and be resourceful with the materials to take their ideas from a plan to a finished project. Any questions, please email Mrs. Brinkoff.

Half Year Club on Thursdays -

Dates: 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/14, 11/21, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13

Lego Club

Advisor: Ms. DeVita

The Lego Club aims to provide a fun and educational environment for students to explore their creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork abilities through building with Legos. Any questions, please email Ms. DeVita.

Half Year Club on Wednesdays -

Dates: 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5

OTS Sports OTS Sports

Click here to check out our sports website.


OTS offers 10 sports throughout the school year. Physicals and Health Forms are due prior to the start of all seasons. Contact the school nurse smedenilla@tewksburyschool for the sports physical forms.


Fall Sports

Open to students in Grades 5-8 Cross Country

Open to students in Grades 6-8 - (Co-Ed) Soccer

Open to students in Grades 6-8 - Girls Volleyball


Winter Sports

Open to grades 5-8 - Spirit Squad

Open to Grades 6-8 - Girls and Boys Basketball


Spring Sports

Open to grades 5-8 - Girls and Boys Lacrosse, Track and Field (coed), and Softball

Open to grades 6-8 - Baseball


Practices run until 4:15pm unless designated by a coach

All home games/meets start at 4:00pm unless otherwise stated

All winter physicals were due to the OTS school nurse by November 1, 2024

Realtime Parent Portal Information Realtime Parent Portal Information

Our school management software program is called Realtime. The data contained in Realtime is used as the preferred method of communication for mass emails from the district, text messages, and voice messages. This information is used for emergency situations like weather delays, school closing, etc. Please keep this information updated. You will be requested to review and update your contact information and to whom and how you want information sent.


The Parent Portal will open August 26 at 12:00pm. There are several documents in Realtime that you will need to read and acknowledge prior to viewing your child's schedule and Advisor/Homeroom teacher. If you are having trouble accessing the portal, please contact our front office; dkrowl@tewksburyschools.org


RealTime is also where student records will be visible for parents including grades and any disciplinary infractions and points.

Advisory Advisory

In an advisory system, each student has an adult/Advisor who knows them and helps them navigate middle school. Each student needs to know they have at least one adult who they can go to for advice, help, and support. During Advisory the Advisor may facilitate a meaningful activity, play some games, and foster connections during this time. Advisory will provide times for the Advisor to talk and consult with students on issues relating to the academic, social, and emotional.

No Homework Days No Homework Days

FOR THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR, HOMEWORK WILL NOT BE ASSIGNED TO STUDENTS DURING THE FOLLOWING DATES AND NO ASSESSMENT WILL BE GIVEN ON THE DAY THEY RETURN TO SCHOOL


  • Rosh Hashanah (October 2 through October 4)

  • Thanksgiving Recess (November 27 through December 2)

  • Winter Recess (December 20 through January 2)

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20)

  • Presidents’ Day weekend (February 13 through February 18)

  • Spring Recess (April 17 through April 29)

  • Memorial Day Weekend (May 22 through May 27)

Virtual Backpack Virtual Backpack

As a reminder, Tewksbury Township Schools uses our Virtual Backpack to share things happening in and around our community. Click here to see what's going on!

Lockers Lockers

Every OTS student will have a locker this year. We expect students to keep their lockers locked with their own lock or a school provided lock.

Students should not leave any food or water overnight in their lockers.

Physical Education Physical Education

Students will not be getting changed for Physical Education (PE) and should wear comfortable clothes they can run around in as well as sneakers on the days they have PE. PE is three days a week for each student at OTS.

Chromebooks Chromebooks

Starting this school year 2024-25, Tewksbury is increasing the cost of Chromebook insurance to line up with the rate increases we are getting from the insurance carriers. Chromebook insurance will be going from the $25 it was during the 23-24 school year to $35 for all students next year. We are eliminating any additional charges for Chromebook damage that may have been incurred in the past and moving to a “full coverage” insurance model for all student devices. All accidental damage will be covered by our new insurance with no additional cost to parents.


Parents will now be able to pay student Chromebook insurance fees via their Payschools portal starting on 7/1/24. Parents will also have the option of mailing a physical check to school during the summer before school starts. We are not accepting checks in person. Please do not send your student in with a check.


Please mail checks to:

Old Turnpike School

171 Old Turnpike Rd.

Tewksbury, NJ 07830

Attn: Heather Valenta


Please make checks payable to:

Tewksbury Twp. Board of Education


Chromebook Handouts 2024-25:


We are eliminating the need to come to OTS during the summer and pick up your child's device. All Chromebooks will be in your child's homeroom on the 1st day of school. Each child will receive a Dell Chromebook, and a USB-C charger. The Chromebook will be clearly labeled with your child's name and in a hard shell drop case to prevent damage.


For more information about the insurance policy as well as parent/student expectations, please click here.

Code of Conduct Code of Conduct

Click here for the 2024-25 Code of Conduct and Student Handbook


  • Code of Conduct
  • Social Media, Cell Phones, and ECRD (Electronic Recording Device) Technology
  • High Honor Roll
  • Chain of Command


Parental/guardian support of school disciplinary actions is also a vital part of the program as it aids in reinforcing consequences and improving student behavior. It’s also important for our parent/guardian community to understand that teachers and Administration may struggle to find appropriate consequences for alleged actions that can’t be substantiated. NOTE The Administration reserves the right to assign penalties for offenses not listed or to adjust a particular penalty when the severity of the offense warrants. Additionally, a counseling component may be included if necessary with all general discipline procedures.

Tewksbury PTA Tewksbury PTA

We have a very active PTA and hope you will join!

Tewksbury Education Foundation Tewksbury Education Foundation

The Tewksbury Education Foundation (TEF) is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization established to bring innovative, inspiring, and cutting-edge events and programs to the students in the Tewksbury Township School District. In collaboration with teachers, the TEF procures enrichment programs for each grade as well as assemblies for each school. The TEF also partners with outside organizations to bring parent speaker programming and provides mini-grants directly to teachers. This year, look out for exciting community events such as STEM Night and the Barn Dance! Please visit our website https://www.tewksburytef.org to find out how to get involved and donate, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram @TewksburyTEF.

Michael Mitchell
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