Dragons' Dish

Dear Allenwood Elementary School Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I hope you and your family enjoyed a wonderful summer and found time to relax, recharge, and make lasting memories. We are excited to welcome all of our Allenwood Dragons back for another amazing year of learning and growth.

A very special welcome goes out to our newest kindergarten students and all of our families who are new to Allenwood. We are so happy you have joined our school community. It will not take long before you feel like part of the Allenwood family, and we look forward to getting to know each of you throughout the year.

As we begin a new school year, our instructional focus will be on strengthening Tier 1 instruction to ensure we are meeting the needs of every learner. By providing high-quality, engaging instruction in every classroom, we will continue to challenge, support, and inspire students at all levels so that each child can reach their greatest potential.

We would also like to remind families about the district's expectations regarding student use of internet-enabled personal electronic devices. To help students stay focused on learning and engaged in the classroom, the use of cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, tablets, and other personal electronic devices is prohibited during the school day, on school buses, and during school-sponsored activities, in accordance with district regulations. Students may use electronic devices only when permitted by school staff or when their use is required as part of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), a Section 504 Plan, or an approved health plan.

We will also continue using Pick Up Patrol for all dismissal changes. This system has streamlined our dismissal process and helps ensure every student gets home safely. Please remember that all dismissal changes must be entered into Pick Up Patrol by 2:30 p.m. each school day. On half days, please be sure to update Pick Up Patrol with any dismissal changes, as needed.

Our school thrives because of the support of our families. I encourage you to join our Parent-Teacher Group (PTG) and become an active member of the Allenwood community. Your involvement makes a meaningful difference in the experiences we provide for our students, and we look forward to partnering with you throughout the year.

Below are upcoming events at Allenwood Elementary School:

• Thursday, September 3, 2026 – First Day of School (Regular Dismissal, 3:20 p.m.)
• Friday, September 4, 2026 – Half Day for Students (Dismissal at 1:05 p.m.)
• Monday, September 7, 2026 – Labor Day (School Closed)
• Wednesday, September 9, 2026 – Picture Day
• Thursday, September 17, 2026 – PTG Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Cafeteria
• Wednesday, September 23, 2026 – Back-to-School Night, 6:30 p.m.

We cannot wait to welcome our Dragons back and begin another year filled with learning, friendship, and success. I am looking forward to a fantastic 2026–2027 school year!

With Dragon Pride,

James Sterenczak
Principal

Thank you Mrs. Cimino and the tireless PTG Board for a year full of enriching and

fun experiences. Please consider being an active member of the Allenwood PTG.

Whether your child is entering elementary, middle, or high school, the start of a new school year brings a mix of excitement, anticipation, and sometimes a little uncertainty. While each stage of development presents unique experiences, there are a few universal strategies that can help students of all ages feel prepared, connected, and confident.

1. Get Back into a Routine
A week or two before school starts, begin returning to school-year routines. Younger children can practice bedtime and morning routines, while older students can reset sleep schedules and organize school materials.

2. Build a Sense of Belonging
Connecting with familiar peers can make returning to school feel easier. Plan a playdate for younger children or encourage older students to connect with friends before the first day.

3. Get Familiar with the School Routine
Help your child know what to expect. Younger children can practice drop-off, while older students can review schedules, transportation, locker combinations, or classroom locations.

4. Encourage Voice and Agency
Help your child practice speaking up, asking for help, and solving everyday problems. Talk through situations such as forgetting lunch, getting lost, missing the bus, or needing help. Older students can practice emailing a teacher or asking a question on their own.

5. Talk About Their Feelings
Make time to talk about excitement, worry, or uncertainty. Help your child make a simple plan, such as talking to a Trusted Adult, reaching out to a friend, or asking a teacher for help.

Monmouth ACTS ResourceConnect
Monmouth ACTS ResourceConnect offers Monmouth County residents a simple way to connect with a wide range of local services and supports. ResourceConnect can help connect families with food, housing assistance, medical care, employment programs, mental health services, child care, and more. For additional assistance or help connecting with resources, please contact your child’s school counselor.

Lack of Permanent Housing
If your family is experiencing economic hardship or does not have permanent housing, please visit the McKinney-Vento webpage for important information about your rights and available resources.

District Homeless Education Liaison
Tiffany Steiner
tsteiner@wallpublicschools.org
732.556.2657