Sept 2026: Superintendent's Corner

Hello Falcon Family,

As we close out the first full month of school, we have much to be proud of across our schools and in the community. September brought numerous Open Houses, Back-to-School Nights, and other community events across all five schools. The environments were always welcoming and positive, with great excitement as our students returned for the new school year. I want to extend my sincere appreciation to our staff for the hours of preparation and planning they put into getting our school year off to a great start and setting our students up for success. Additionally, I want to thank the Township Officials and the Police Department for their outstanding support as we opened our doors. Police Officers were present to assist with traffic flow, answer questions for parents and guardians, and, in partnership, greet students warmly.

Personally, I could not wait for this school year to begin.  Seeing our excellent students in action on the fields, during activities, and in the classrooms is the highlight of any educator's year.  It is why we do what we do, and our kids truly excelled.  From the volunteers of the Morris Youth Coalition to the students participating in this year’s annual Falcon Band Golden Classic, and through peer leader programs in each school that help fellow students, our Falcon Family demonstrated its commitment daily throughout the district.  

I would also like to recognize JTHS Senior Erik Hokenberg and his father, Mr. Hokenberg, for their recent heroic actions in assisting with a search and rescuing a young person from Lake Hopatcong. Erik and his father were recently honored at a joint event hosted by the Town Council. This is a clear example of our Falcon Pride at its best and the kind of actions our young people take to help others here in Jefferson. Their willingness to get involved and their courage to act averted a tragedy.  

As we look ahead to October, we begin the month with the annual Week of Respect. I ask families to talk with their children about what it means to treat others the way they want to be treated. To ensure they understand that respect, inclusion, and good citizenship are not about dressing up in themed clothing for one week, but about coming to school daily, ready to foster a positive environment for ALL students. As educators, we can model this by letting our students know that we are here for them whenever they face challenges. Let’s commit to making this year’s Week of Respect a rededication of the Falcon Family to caring for one another and to making this the best school year yet.