Dragons' Dish

Dear Allenwood Elementary School Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful summer and is ready for another exciting year at Allenwood Elementary School. I am looking forward to welcoming our students and families back to school and beginning another year of learning and growth together.

A Focus on Tier 1 Instruction

As we begin the new school year, our teachers and staff are focused on providing high-quality Tier 1 instruction for all students, which is a districtwide goal. Tier 1 instruction is standards-based, high-quality instruction that takes place in every classroom and is designed to meet the needs of all learners.

Our teachers will work collaboratively to create meaningful learning experiences, monitor student progress, and provide the support and enrichment each child needs to be successful.

The Importance of Attendance

One of the most important ways families can support their children’s success is by making sure they are present and on time for school each day.

Consistent attendance helps students:

• Establish classroom routines and expectations
• Develop friendships and build relationships with teachers
• Remain engaged in their learning
• Keep pace academically
• Develop lifelong habits that will serve them well beyond their school years

Even occasional absences or tardiness can make it more difficult for students to keep pace academically or feel connected to their classroom community. Every school day matters, and we appreciate your partnership in making regular attendance and punctuality a priority throughout the year.

Important Dismissal and Transportation Information

Pick Up Patrol

For the safety of all our students, please make sure your child’s dismissal plan is accurate in Pick Up Patrol. If there is a change to your child’s dismissal plan, the change must be entered into Pick Up Patrol.

Walker and Private Transportation Procedures

If your child is not riding the bus or riding a bicycle, please select the appropriate dismissal option: Walker or Private Transportation. Please do not designate your child as Private Transportation and then walk to the private pick-up line to take your child home. Families should follow the dismissal procedure associated with the option selected. Students designated as walkers are escorted to Shoreline Drive and safely crossed by our crossing guard.

Reporting Student Absences in Genesis

This newsletter includes directions for parents/guardians on how to report their child’s absence directly through Genesis, without having to call the main office. Please take a moment to review these directions and familiarize yourself with the process.

Bus Delay Notifications

Last year, parents/guardians were asked to check the district website for information regarding bus delays. This year, parents/guardians will receive an AM and/or PM text message from our Transportation Department if their child’s bus is running late. Please make sure that your contact information is up to date in Genesis to receive these messages. Thank you for your cooperation with these procedures. Following our transportation procedures helps us maintain a safe, orderly, and efficient arrival and dismissal for everyone.

Upcoming Events

I am excited about all that the new school year has in store for our Allenwood Dragons! Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we will work to ensure that every student feels welcomed, supported, challenged, and inspired to do their very best.

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.

The Wall High School community is proud to announce the Grand Opening of our new Athletic Turf Stadiums! The RED Stadium, located on the upper portion of the WHS athletic campus, is home to WHS Football, 8-lane Track, Soccer, Field Hockey, and Lacrosse. The BLUE Stadium, located on the lower portion of the WHS athletic campus (former FB stadium), is home to Soccer, Field Hockey, and Lacrosse.

Join us as we celebrate this exciting new chapter for Wall Township High School athletics, our students, and the entire Crimson Knight community.

The RED Stadium (upper field) Grand Opening Celebration will take place in front of the new home bleachers at the center of the RED field on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 3:45 pm, just prior to our first Varsity Field Hockey game being played.

The BLUE Stadium (lower field) Grand Opening Celebration will take place in front of the bleachers at the center of the BLUE field on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 3:45 pm, just prior to our first Varsity Girls Soccer game being played.

This state-of-the-art facility represents the pride, tradition, and commitment that make Wall High School a special place.

Come experience the energy, excitement, and CRIMSON KNIGHT PRIDE as we officially open our new home for the Wall Crimson Knights.

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