The Champions' Chronicle

Lodi Community:

October has been a wonderful month filled with learning, celebration, and connections across our schools. As we welcome the crisp air and vibrant colors of fall, I want to take a moment to thank you for a strong and successful start to the school year. It’s been inspiring to see our students engaged in learning, building friendships, and participating in the many activities that make our schools such special places to learn and grow.

Our district website is currently being updated and is under construction. The updated design and layout will make it easier than ever for families to stay informed about school events, access important information, and celebrate the great things happening across the district. This launch reflects our ongoing commitment to providing clear communication and strong partnerships with our community. Thank you for your patience.

This month, we also join school districts across the nation in recognizing several meaningful observances – National Bullying Prevention Month, National Principal’s Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and World Mental Health Day. Each one serves as an important reminder of our shared responsibility to build inclusive, safe, and supportive school environments for all.

As part of National Principal’s Month, we extend our gratitude to our dedicated school leaders who work tirelessly to support students, staff, and families every day.

Together, we continue to move forward, championing pride and community. I encourage families to stay connected through our new website and to participate in upcoming school events as we head into a busy and exciting season ahead.

Very truly yours,

Frank D’Amico

Lodi High School held its 12th annual College Kickoff Week in September, an event that gives juniors, seniors, and students from the Junior Academy and Felician Academy the opportunity to explore college and career options right on campus by connecting directly with college representatives. The weeklong program, organized by Lead Counselor Ashley Alessi, connected students with colleges and universities, each providing valuable insight into academic programs, admissions, and campus life.

College Kickoff Week planning begins as early as May, with Mrs. Alessi reaching out to college admissions offices in the spring to coordinate schedules and sessions for the fall. Each participating school leads a 45-minute information session, allowing students to learn about academic programs, campus life, and admissions requirements. Using the SCORE platform, students could register for up to six sessions that best aligned with their interests, making it easy to personalize their experience.

This year, more than 20 colleges and universities visited Lodi High School, including Princeton University, Rutgers University–New Brunswick and Rutgers University–Newark, Stevens Institute of Technology, and William Paterson University. Representatives from programs such as Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Latino Promise and HACER Program also shared valuable insights about specialized pathways designed to support student success. These visits allow students to ask questions, explore future opportunities, and form meaningful connections with college representatives — all within the comfort of their own school.

Additional colleges in attendance included Bergen Community College, Binghamton University, Bloomfield College of Montclair State University, Caldwell University, Drew University, Felician University, Kean University, Manhattan College, Monmouth University, Montclair State University, the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Princeton University, Ramapo College, Rider University, Saint Peter’s University, St. Thomas Aquinas College, the University of New Haven, and Wilkes University.

College Kickoff Week is especially valuable for students who may face challenges visiting colleges in person due to work, family responsibilities, or transportation barriers. “Our goal is to remove those obstacles and bring opportunities directly to our students,” Mrs. Alessi said. “It’s so rewarding to see them excited to meet with college reps, ask thoughtful questions, and feel confident about their futures.”

The weeklong event required extensive coordination done by Mrs. Alessi and her continued dedication in planning and implementing such a meaningful experience for students each year. Her efforts ensure that every Lodi High School student has the chance to take an important first step toward their college and career goals.

Lodi Public Schools was recognized by the New Jersey School Public Relations Association for its media coverage highlighting the Lodi High School Surf Club! Superintendent Frank D’Amico and Surf Club Advisor Mr. Matt Nicolosi attended the event to celebrate winning "Award of Excellence" in the media relations category. This story garnered international coverage by The Times of London, and was also featured on FOX Good Day New York, WNYC Radio and in the Gothamist.

This recognition reflects Lodi's commitment to always “Be a Champion” inside and out of the classroom.

SRO at Lodi Public Schools

For more than 23 years, Det. Castro has proudly served the Lodi Police Department, dedicating much of that time to working in partnership with local schools and the community. His commitment goes far beyond law enforcement; it’s rooted in caring for kids and helping them grow into responsible, confident young adults.

As a School Resource Officer (SRO), Det. Castro works closely with students, staff, and administrators across Lodi Schools. “Everyone’s main concern is the safety of the kids,” he says, emphasizing that his job is not just about maintaining safety but about making sure “everything is in order” so students can thrive.

From greeting students each morning to connecting with them in the cafeteria or during after-school activities, Det. Castro makes it his mission to build strong relationships. He’s often found walking the halls, checking in with teachers and custodians, and monitoring the campus to ensure everyone feels safe.

“Just because I call a student down doesn’t mean they’re in trouble,” he explains. “I want them to know I’m here for them, to talk, to listen, and to help them see that everyone’s entitled to a bad day.”

That sense of compassion extends far beyond the school day. One of his most cherished memories is the annual Thanksgiving dinner for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to share a holiday meal. “Watching teachers tear up as students shared what they were thankful for — that moment showed the impact we can have,” he recalls. “We’re doing it again this year.”

Over the years, he has seen students grow up, graduate, and even return to join the police force. “Some of the same kids who used to play basketball in the gym are now my partners,” he says proudly.

Whether he’s guiding a student through a tough day, helping them make better choices, or watching former students succeed, Det. Castro treats every child as one of his own. “I have 900 kids,” he said. “I treat them the same way I treat my own.”

Through patience, empathy, and everyday presence, Det. Castro continues to prove that safety in schools begins with connection, and that one caring adult can make all the difference.

Follow Det. Castro on Instagram to see a what a day in the life of an SRO looks like!

Yesenia is a 2012 graduate of Lodi High School.

How did Lodi Public Schools help prepare you for your future?

Playing basketball all four years helped me become more dedicated and focused. I use these same mindsets now.

What is your favorite memory from school?

My favorite memory is the letter we were able to write to our future selves. I would have never imagined the letter actually being mailed to me years later.

Who was your favorite teacher/staff member and why?

Biology Teacher Mr. Centrella. Besides always helping me in class and guiding me, he always recommended me and supported my dreams, even after no longer being in his class.

Did you further your education after high school?

I received an associate's degree from Bergen Community College and a bachelor's degree in Psychology from William Paterson University. I plan to attend Montclair State University for my graduate degree.

What advice would you give current students to get the most out of their educational experience in the Lodi School District?

Following teachers, working with them my senior years, shadowing, all helped me have a different perspective. Being involved in activities was a great way to make new friends.

Are you among the Lodi High School alumni and interested in being featured? If so, please fill out this form.

Lodi High School celebrated a spirited Homecoming 2025 this past month with an evening filled with school spirit, Rams football, and community pride. Superintendent Frank D’Amico crowned Amaya Silva as this year’s Homecoming Queen and John Wyman as Homecoming King during the halftime ceremony.

Amaya, a senior and captain of the Lodi High School cheerleading team, earned the title from among 28 applicants after submitting an essay as part of the selection process. John, a junior and football player for the Rams, received the crown alongside Amaya representing the energy and unity of the Lodi High School community. The event was a memorable highlight of the season, celebrating student achievement, teamwork, and community pride.

Earlier this month, faculty and staff across Lodi Public Schools came together for a full-day Safety Professional Development Day at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, centered on strengthening emergency preparedness and reinforcing the district’s ongoing commitment to school safety.

The day featured an interactive threat seminar and hands-on breakout sessions led by Tomahawk Strategic Solutions, designed to ensure a consistent and coordinated response across all schools. Sessions covered threat assessment, trauma-informed practices, situational awareness, and emergency medical response, with support from partners including the Lodi Police Department, Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office and Regional SWAT, Urban Area Security Initiative, and Hackensack Meridian Health.

“Bringing the entire district together for this comprehensive safety and preparedness training was essential because school safety requires a united, districtwide effort,” said Superintendent of Schools Frank D’Amico. “When every teacher, administrator, and staff member is equipped with the same knowledge, tools, and protocols, our response becomes more coordinated, efficient, and effective.”

Faculty engaged in interactive exercises and real-world case studies focused on improving threat recognition, emergency response, and mental health awareness. Breakout sessions included Stop the Bleed medical response workshops, lockdown staging, and emergency communication training.

This districtwide initiative reflects Lodi Public Schools’ commitment to fostering a culture of preparedness, collaboration, and care, ensuring that every member of the school community is informed, confident, and ready to respond in any situation.

Thomas Jefferson Middle School students had an exciting and energetic day participating in the NFL PLAY 60 event! New York Giants players Chauncey Golston, Reid Holskey, Darius Muasau, and Juice Wells joined sixth graders and the school’s football team for a fun-filled afternoon of movement, teamwork, and inspiration. In partnership with the American Heart Association, students spent 90 minutes learning about the importance of staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Activities included football, badminton on the new pickleball courts, volleyball, and basketball, with the Giants players rotating between indoor and outdoor stations so everyone could join in. Students had the chance to get autographs, play games, and even received valuable advice from the players. The event is part of the NFL’s ongoing PLAY 60 initiative, which encourages kids to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

Wilson Elementary School held its first Student of the Month Breakfast for students and families on Oct. 3. Students chosen as Student of the Month, along with their parents and guardians, received certificates during a morning ceremony that included a bagel breakfast for all attendees.

Two of Lodi’s elementary school counselors, Jasmine DeLaPaz-Holstein, M.A., LPC, school counselor at Wilson Elementary School, and Olha Mykula, M.A., NCC, LPC, school counselor at Columbus Elementary School, recently represented Lodi Public Schools at the New Jersey School Counselor Association (NJSCA) Conference, where they presented a session titled “Tiny Thinkers, Big Feelings.”

Their presentation explored how school counselors can apply strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in elementary schools to help students manage emotions, strengthen coping skills and build healthy relationships.

Drawing from their experience supporting Lodi’s diverse pre-K through fifth grade students, DeLaPaz-Holstein and Mykula shared creative, hands-on activities that make emotional learning engaging for young children. Examples included “Thought Detectives” with puppets, “Breathing Buddies” mindfulness exercises and DBT “TIPP” techniques for calming strong emotions. They also highlighted ways to promote resilience and positive self-talk through coping skill kits, affirmation walls and emotion charades. Their goal was to show that evidence-based strategies can be both fun and effective in helping students thrive socially, emotionally and academically.

For DeLaPaz-Holstein and Mykula, presenting at the state conference was a meaningful opportunity to showcase the counseling work taking place every day in Lodi schools.

“It was incredibly rewarding to connect with other counselors, exchange ideas and see how these tools can be adapted to meet the needs of different school communities,” they said. “We’re proud to represent Lodi and to continue advocating for the social-emotional growth of all students.”

DeLaPaz-Holstein and Mykula delivered an outstanding presentation, showcasing not only their deep expertise and professionalism but also the heart and passion they bring to their work each day. Their presentation was inspiring, and they represented the district with incredible pride, excellence, and authenticity.

In recognition of Fire Prevention Week, members of the Lodi Fire Department visited Roosevelt School to teach students important fire safety lessons. Students learned how to prevent fires at home, practiced the “Stop, Drop, and Roll” technique, and enjoyed an engaging demonstration from the firefighters. The visit was made even more special by a surprise appearance from Sparky the Fire Dog, who brought plenty of smiles while helping reinforce the importance of safety and preparedness.

Hilltop kindergarteners worked very hard from the first day of school learning all the letters of the alphabet. Once they completed all 26, each student was assigned a letter and created a vest decorated with items that begin with that letter. They then marched around the school to present their ABC Bootcamp vests, proudly showcasing their creativity and new knowledge of the alphabet.

Washington Elementary continues to build a positive school culture through its R.O.A.R. behavior rewards program, which operates under the framework of Positive Behavior Support in Schools (PBSIS). PBSIS, an initiative supported by the New Jersey Department of Education, promotes proactive, schoolwide interventions designed to encourage positive behavior, enhance school climate, and support academic success.

Each fall, students and staff come together for the annual R.O.A.R. kickoff assembly, highlighting the behavioral expectations represented by the program’s four pillars: Respect, Ownership, Attitude and Responsibility. These pillars, inspired by the school’s Wildcat mascot, are presented to the student body by fourth- and fifth-grade leaders who help model the program’s core values.

Now in its seventh year at Washington Elementary, PBSIS continues to thrive thanks to the enthusiasm and commitment of students and staff. Each Friday, students eagerly listen to morning announcements to find out who will spin the R.O.A.R. prize wheel during lunchtime, a celebration that recognizes kindness, citizenship and positive contributions to the school community.

Hilltop Elementary celebrated Respect Week, a time dedicated to teaching the importance of kindness, understanding, and empathy. Each day throughout the week featured a special theme to highlight respect in action — from pajama day to show respect for the school community, to Disney day celebrating that “respect is magical.” Students also wore blue to stand up against bullying and ended the week in Hilltop gear to display pride in their school. The week’s activities encourage students to reflect on how their words and actions can make Hilltop a more positive and respectful place for everyone.

View past editions of the 2025-26 newsletters here.