WISE Words #4

Dear Rossi Family,

As we move through the winter months, our schoolwide theme of Strengthening Together feels especially important. At Rossi, this idea reflects how we approach teaching and learning, how we care for one another, and how we continue to grow as a school community.

In our classrooms, strengthening together means providing instruction that meets students where they are while encouraging them to stretch, think deeply, and stay curious. Our teachers work closely with one another to plan, reflect, and improve their practice so that every child feels supported and challenged. We are proud of the learning that is happening each day and of the effort our students put into their work.

This theme also connects strongly to our school culture. Rossi is a place where students are known, valued, and encouraged to be their best selves. We are grateful for the kindness we see among students, the dedication of our staff, and the sense of belonging that helps make our school a positive and welcoming place.

We are deeply thankful for our families and community partners who continue to support our work. Your communication, involvement, and partnership play an important role in our success. One area where this partnership truly matters is attendance. Thank you for working with our faculty to ensure students are in school every possible day. Being present helps students stay connected to their learning and to one another.

As we look ahead, we are excited to fill 2026 with meaningful memories, opportunities for growth, and lessons that will shape our students both academically and personally. We also look forward to several upcoming events. In February, we will celebrate Black History Month through learning activities and schoolwide experiences. In March, we will take part in Read Across America and our annual Read-a- Palooza as we celebrate the joy and importance of reading.

Thank you for being such an important part of the Rossi community. Together, we will continue to strengthen our school and support our students every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Lauren Coia, Principal

Mr. Sylvester Cifaloglio, Assistant Principal

We are so proud to celebrate two extraordinary members of our school family!

Teacher of the Year – Mr. Jeff Martine

Mr. Martine, now in his 5th year of teaching, serves as our district’s Gifted & Talented teacher for grades 2–5. He pours his heart into our school community and always goes above and beyond for our students. From leading our Drama Club and other extracurricular activities, to serving as our Safety Patrol advisor, to helping spearhead our Big Brothers Big Sisters school outreach program, his dedication shines in everything he does.

Before stepping into his role in Gifted & Talented, Mr. Martine made an incredible impact as a Special Education teacher at Rossi. We are so grateful for his passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to our students.

Educational Services Professional of the Year – Mrs. Lori Avena

We are equally thrilled to honor Mrs. Avena for her exceptional support, care, and service to our school community. As a kindergarten instructional aide, her dedication makes a meaningful difference each and every day, and we are so lucky to have her as part of our Rossi family.

Please join us in celebrating Mr. Martine and Mrs. Avena for their well-deserved recognition!

Congratulations to our students who have been "caught being good", demonstrating kindness and generosity all month long! Keep up the good work, Rossi Owls!

This winter, Rossi students and staff participated in several WISE assemblies focused on empathy, optimism, and communication. Each experience helped reinforce the values that strengthen our school community.

In November, we welcomed Jessica Tabler, Teacher of the Blind, who introduced the WISE trait of Empathy. Students were highly engaged as they learned how her students use different senses to learn and experience the world. Mrs. Tabler’s presentation emphasized how empathy and compassion help build stronger relationships and communities. We honored Mrs. Jones as our WISE Guy!

In December, faculty and staff heard from Amy Martine Carolla, owner of Balance Gym in Philadelphia, who spoke about the importance of positivity and optimism in everyday life. Her motivating message, along with a brief workout and meditation, left everyone feeling energized and inspired. Mrs. Melissa Wolf was honored as our WISE Guy!

On Friday, January 9th, Rossi Owls gathered to celebrate Optimism by recognizing students from each homeroom and special area who consistently demonstrate a positive mindset. Ms. Adrienne Pedersen was also honored as our WISE Guy for Optimism. During this assembly, YI’s Karate Studio introduced the trait of Encouragement, sharing a powerful message about supporting ourselves and others in order to grow and succeed.

We are grateful to all of our presenters for their time and meaningful messages, and we extend a special thank you to Mrs. Liz Petrini for leading and organizing these assemblies for our Rossi community.

At December's Faculty Meeting, Mrs. Daughtry relinquished the turnover chain to her longtime friend and colleague, Mrs. Ulrich. Mrs. Ulrich who retired this month after a long and distinguished career in Vineland, came back to pass the chain off to another dedicated member of the Rossi Family: Mrs. Rodriguez. Each of these three women demonstrate perseverance, communication, and critical thinking every day at Rossi.

Rossi’s Holiday Concert was pure magic! Under the incredible direction of Mrs. Michniewicz, who dedicated so much time and effort to the planning, our students brought a true winter wonderland to life. ❄️🎶 Thank you to everyone who made this special day possible!

All December long, staff and students at Rossi participated in fulfilling and enriching holiday activities with the aim of strengthening our positive culture and demonstrating an environment of kindness and empathy. Including Rossi's first ever Cocoa and Cookies night, several holiday-themed spirit days, a visit from our North Pole Principal "Mrs. Jingle", and even a special 6-7 holiday themed dress down, our students and staff brought the holiday spirit all month long!

We had an incredible assembly thanks to the Youth Alliance and former NFL defensive lineman Devin Wyman!

Originally drafted by the New England Patriots, Devin also played for the Minnesota Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and in the Arena League. Through his powerful and inspirational message, he encouraged our students to make the right choices, listen to the right voices, and believe in their potential.

Thank you to the Youth Alliance and Devin Wyman for such a meaningful and motivating experience for our students!

Our Top 10 popcorn sellers were rewarded with an unforgettable trip to Fun City! To make the day even more exciting and extra special, they were surprised with a limo ride to kick off the celebration in style. We are so proud of their hard work, dedication, and outstanding efforts in our fundraiser.

Our Owls rocked the 80th day of school in true ’80s style! 🎉🦉

From neon colors and leg warmers to big hair and classic vibes, our halls were filled with fun, smiles, and school spirit. What a totally awesome way to celebrate how far we’ve come this year! 💿✨

Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade students had the best time welcoming The Funny Farm to school! Students learned all about life on the farm, what it’s like to visit, and how animals are cared for. The highlight? Getting to meet and pet dogs, cats, and chickens up close! Smiles, laughter, and lots of excitement filled the room as our youngest learners enjoyed this hands-on experience. Thank you to The Funny Farm for making the assembly so memorable for our students!

Lucas won December's Gold Badge for demonstrating the WISE character trait of optimism. Keep up the great work, Lucas!

Our safeties did an outstanding job leading the flag salute at the Board of Education meeting. They also spoke thoughtfully and presented handmade cards to Mr. Llano, thanking him for being a great superintendent and wishing him all the best as he transitions to his new career in Camden.

Big thanks to our safety patrol members for their help doing a gingerbread man craft with our kindergarteners in Ms. Reboyras’ and Mrs. Avena’s class. They had a blast spreading holiday cheer.

Rossi Safety Patrol has had a busy December giving back to our community. Huge thank you to our Rossi students, staff, and families for making our toy drive and Soft Socks for Seniors drive huge successes. Special thanks to Gina Rudolph and the Dream Foundation for facilitating this annual toy drive. Donated socks will go to senior citizens in our community in the hopes of keeping them warm and cozy this winter.

Anthony Rossi Safety Patrol is sponsoring a Pop-Up Souper Bowl Food Drive to support the Vineland Soup Kitchen!

Beginning Monday, February 2, students are encouraged to bring in food items assigned to their grade level. The grade that donates the most items by Friday, February 6 will earn an ice cream party as a thank-you for their generosity.

Requested items include:

• Canned fruits and vegetables

• Canned soup and chili

• Pasta, mac & cheese, boxed rice, and potatoes

• Canned tuna, chicken, and spam

• Individually wrapped snacks such as fruit snacks, granola bars, and snack cakes

All donations may be dropped off in Mr. Martine’s room.

Let’s work together as a school community to help families in need and show our Rossi pride. Every donation counts!