Welcome to 2026-2027

Our Mission: Capitalize on the diversity of our community to ignite passion for building inner wealth, personal growth, academic excellence, and leadership in an inclusive and restorative environment, creating dynamic local and global citizens.

Our Vision: Every individual will achieve personal excellence in a safe, nurturing, and celebrated environment.

Our Core Values: Resilience, Innovation, Academic Advancement, Integrity, and Inclusion

"Together We Ignite Greatness!"

I hope this message finds your family healthy and enjoying the summer break. A lot of preparations are being made to help me transition into my new role as principal of Holbein MS. At HMS, we will expect families and students to treat peers, staff, and all members of our school community with kindness and respect. We encourage families and students to take pride in our school by caring for school property and creating an environment where everyone feels safe and valued. Lastly, student are expected to give their best effort, make positive choices, and take responsibility for their actions.

This message is an opportunity for me to share some priority areas for the upcoming year. Please carefully review the following information as you prepare your student for their educational experience:

• Genesis Parent Portal: The Genesis Parent Portal is an important tool for staying connected to your child's education. We encourage all families to log in regularly to monitor grades, attendance, and conduct, review important school documents, and keep contact and emergency information up to date. Staying informed through Genesis helps strengthen the partnership between home and school and supports your child's success.

**The Genesis Portal will not be open to families until the week of August 31st. Look for an email from the district if it opens earlier.

• Timely Arrival to School and Class: Students are expected to arrive at school on time and be prepared to begin learning each day. Prompt arrival to school and timely transitions between classes demonstrate responsibility, respect for instructional time, and a commitment to success. Developing habits of punctuality, time management, accountability, and preparedness will support students throughout high school, future careers, and life beyond the classroom.

** I am proud to announce that Holbein Middle School has met the state's attendance goal with a 90.4% attendance rate, which is also 4.8% lower than the state average.

• Code of Conduct: Please review the Student Code of Conduct with your child and revisit it throughout the school year. Understanding our expectations promotes student accountability, personal responsibility, and positive decision-making while helping us maintain a safe, respectful, and supportive learning environment.

• NJ Cell phones and Internet-enabled Devices Ban (meaning a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or other device capable of connecting to the internet and enabling the user to access content on the internet, including social media applications. NJ The law excludes an internet-enabled device provided by a public school when used for educational purposes.
• HMS will follow New Jersey’s new cell phone restrictions for public schools. Students are expected to comply with all school guidelines regarding electronic devices during the school day. Students should use their assigned lockers to securely store cell phones and other personal devices when they are not permitted for instructional use.
• Online Legislation
• NJ School Boards Association Press Release
• Locker Usage: Students are expected to use their assigned lockers throughout the school day to safely store personal belongings, including electronic devices and other valuables. Lockers should be used individually and secured with the assigned lock at all times. Sharing lockers or leaving items unsecured increases the risk of lost or stolen belongings. While we encourage students to take responsibility for their personal property, the school cannot guarantee the protection or replacement of items that are lost, damaged, or stolen. Families are encouraged to reinforce the importance of organization, responsibility, and safety.
• Supply Lists: Having the necessary materials helps students stay organized, prepared, and engaged in their learning. While some teachers may provide additional course-specific requests, these recommended supplies will help students develop responsibility and strong habits for academic success.

All students in grades 5 thru 8 must have an updated annual sports physical in order to participate in any school sporting events. Below are the forms families will need to submit to the main office:

• Parent/Family Form
• Physician Form
• Flyer

If you have difficulty scheduling with the pediatrician, Urgent Care is also an option.