Superintendent’s Spotlight Message – 12/22/2024

Dear Linden Families,

I wish everyone a joyful and peaceful break as we approach the Winter break. We have important updates and reminders for the upcoming break:

• Tomorrow, December 23rd, will be a half-day with no lunch service.

• School will be closed on December 24th–26th, 31st, and January 1st. Students will return on Thursday, January 2nd.

During the break, our Buildings and Grounds Department will be active. Offices will be open on December 27th and 30th. High School Athletics will continue, and we wish them success in their competitions.

With the onset of winter weather, my thoughts are filled with warm wishes for everyone, hoping that all are surrounded by love and cheer. We are grateful for the generosity shown through our district-wide food drives, coat drives, and toy drives.

This season prompts us to pause and give straight from the heart. I appreciate how our administrators, support staff, and teachers do this daily. Their efforts are appreciated, and we are progressing with gratitude and ROAR pride. Let us celebrate our mission of providing a nurturing learning environment for all our students.

On behalf of the Linden Board of Education, have a safe and enjoyable Winter break filled with love, reflection, and thankfulness: Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy Kwanzaa to those who celebrate.

Take care, and may the New Year bring prosperity,

Atiya Y. Perkins

Superintendent of Schools

Winter Break

Tiger Pride Wellness Day

LPS Governor’s Educators of the Year – 12/17/2024

How To Access Your Child’s Report Card – 12/11/2024

HELPme App – 12/10/2024

Dear Parent/Guardian,

We are excited to introduce the HELPme app- a 24/7 support system for students, families, and school employees.

The HELPme app empowers every member of our school community to seek support whenever they need it, while remaining completely anonymous!

Whether it’s a safety or security concern, a student battling bullying, a family in need of food or shelter, or anyone facing a personal challenge – HELPme is here to support us.

The HELPme app provides three ways for our school community to ask for and receive help:

• GET RESOURCES is a safe space for users to explore essential needs and wellness resources at their own pace. It provides a confidential way to connect with local resources, ensuring privacy and dignity for those seeking assistance.

• CRISIS TEXT LINE provides users with immediate mental health support. With a network of 27,000+ trained crisis counselors, users can text with a counselor (day or night), making sure no one feels isolated in their time of need. Counselors are available 24/7, 365 days of the year.

• ASK FOR HELP is an anonymous communication channel between users and designated school personnel. It allows users to request help directly from their school without the pressure of disclosing their identity.

We encourage all parents to download the app and discuss the app with your child. Emphasize the importance of using it responsibly. The app is also available on student devices and the link has been placed on our district website www.lindenps.org. HELPme is not only a support system for your children, but also for YOU.  Getting Started with HELPme:

1. Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
2. Select your school from the dropdown menu or enter the code provided by the school.
3. Accept the Terms & Conditions.

This resource will facilitate communication and provide an outlet for students and parents to reach out for support. Thank you for partnering with us to ensure the safety and well-being of our students.

Take Care,

Atiya Y. Perkins
Superintendent

New Jersey School Climate Improvement (NJ SCI) Survey – 12/03/2024

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment that supports the success and well-being of every student. To better understand and improve the experiences of our students, staff, and families, I am pleased to announce that our district will be engaging in a school climate survey using the New Jersey School Climate Improvement (NJ SCI) Survey, which Rutgers University administers.

Collecting data is essential to assess our school’s strengths and needs and learn how it feels to be a member of the school community. The survey gathers valuable insights into social-emotional learning, academic culture, staff and student relationships, behavioral expectations, family support, and engagement. The feedback collected will guide our efforts to celebrate successes and address areas of improvement. In addition to hearing from parents and caregivers, students in grades 3 through 12 can utilize their student voice and share their feedback. The survey is anonymous and voluntary. A letter with instructions on how to take the parent/caregiver survey will be forthcoming. We thank you in advance for your ongoing partnership and support.

Atiya Y. Perkins, Superintendent of Schools

School No. 4 Lockdown – 11/27/2024

Dear Linden Families,

Earlier this morning, School No. 4 was placed in a lockdown by the Linden Police Department due to suspicious activity. Police were present at the school and collaborated with the school officials. The Lockdown has been lifted and all faculty, students and staff are safe. The school followed crisis procedures, and normal operations have since resumed. The following press release has been issued from the Linden Police Department:

At approximately 7:50am this morning, a 9-1-1 caller reported that there was a man carrying a rifle in the area of E. Elizabeth Ave & N. Park Ave. Officers were immediately dispatched to the area and were unable to locate the suspect. Nearby schools were notified and took appropriate precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and faculty.

Officers confirmed that the man in question was not in possession of a weapon, and the lockdown was lifted at approximately 9:15am.

“Nothing is more precious than our children, and we take any potential threat to their safety very seriously,” said Linden Police Chief David Hart. “I want to thank the Elizabeth Police Department, Linden Public Schools, and our school parents for their assistance this morning. Fortunately, this incident was proven untrue, but I encourage everyone to continue to be vigilant and report suspicious activity as we begin the holiday season.”

Linden Public Schools are scheduled for early dismissal today, and residents can expect an increased presence around all schools throughout the day.

The Linden Public Schools district appreciates the support and protection provided by the Linden Police Department in keeping us safe.

Be well and remain safe,

Atiya Y. Perkins

Superintendent of Schools