Dragons' Dish

Dear Allenwood Elementary School Families,

As we turn the calendar and enter the month of May, our school community continues to build momentum toward a strong and successful end to the school year. This is always a busy and exciting time for our Allenwood Dragons, filled with important learning opportunities and memorable experiences.

One key focus in the coming weeks is the upcoming NJSLA-A state assessments for our 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students. These assessments provide valuable insight into student progress and growth. We encourage all families to support their children by ensuring they are well-rested, arrive at school on time, and are prepared to do their very best each day.

Please find the Allenwood Elementary School testing schedule below:

• May 4: 4th/5th Grade Writing
• May 5–6: 4th/5th Grade Reading
• May 7–8: 3rd Grade Math
• May 11–12: 4th/5th Grade Math
• May 13: 3rd Grade Writing
• May 14–15: 3rd Grade Reading
• May 18–19: 4th Grade Science

For the safety of our students, the bike rack has been relocated as outlined in the letter previously sent home. Those students who ride along the bike path, as well as all other students, should cross by the post office and use the bike rack located next to the dumpsters on the playground. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us keep all students safe during arrival and dismissal.

Teacher Appreciation Week will take place from May 4th through May 8th. I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the incredible staff at Allenwood Elementary School. Their dedication, care, and commitment to our students do not go unnoticed. They work tirelessly each day to support and inspire our young Dragons, and I am truly grateful for all that they do.

We also have several exciting events coming up:

• May 1: Mayfair
• May 4–8: Teacher Appreciation Week
• May 7: 1st Grade Spring Fling Even
• May 8: 2nd Grade Field Trip – Jenkinson’s Aquarium
• May 8: Mayfair Rain Date
• May 8: Fun Facts Assembly
• May 14: Kindergarten Field Trip – Allaire Community Farm
• May 14: 5th Grade Field Trip – Camp Sacajawea
• May 15: Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) Day – Wear Purple
• May 15: 5th Grade LEAD Picnic
• May 20: Field Day
• May 21: Kindergarten Circus Event
• May 22: 3rd Grade Talent Show
• May 25: Memorial Day – School Closed
• May 26: 4th Grade Field Trip – Sandy Hook
• May 27: Field Day Rain Date

As always, thank you for your continued support of our school community. We are proud of the hard work and dedication our students demonstrate each day, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements as the year progresses.

With Dragon Pride,

James Sterenczak
Principal

Join us in celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary with events and activities all year. This section will share district celebrations, announcements, and ways our school community can honor this historic milestone.

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.

As you are aware, Dr. Handerhan announced back in the fall that she will be retiring at the end of this school year. Since then, the Wall Township Board of Education has been actively engaged in the search for a new Superintendent of Schools. At last night’s Board of Education Meeting, the Board of Education appointed Dr. David Bleakley as the next WTPS Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Bleakley brings with him over 20 years of educational experience, and the Board of Education is thrilled to welcome him to the District.

To learn more about Dr. Bleakley, click here. To learn more about the Superintendent Search, click here.

If your family is experiencing economic challenges or homelessness, visit the McKinney Vento webpage for essential information and guidance on available resources.

District Homeless Education Liaison

Tiffany Steiner
tsteiner@wallpublicschools.org
732.556.2647