Hello Lawrence families! Welcome to your weekly school update for October 24th. I'm bringing you the latest happenings from across Lawrence Township Public Schools — from inspiring achievements to upcoming events you won't want to miss. Let's jump right in.
First, some incredible news that has the whole district celebrating. According to this week's school newsletter, Lawrence Middle School teacher Jeanette Capritti just received the surprise of a lifetime. At an all-school assembly on October 15th, she was awarded the prestigious Milken Educator Award, along with a check for twenty-five thousand dollars. This is often called the "Oscars of Teaching," and Jeanette is the sole recipient in New Jersey this season and the very first in Lawrence Township Public Schools history. What an amazing honor for an amazing teacher!
And speaking of Lawrence pride, our hometown connection to Major League Baseball is making headlines. John Schneider, who graduated from Lawrence High School back in 1998, is now managing the Toronto Blue Jays — and they've just advanced to the World Series! John's baseball journey started right here with Lawrence Township Little League, and he even has three nieces currently enrolled in our schools. The whole community is cheering him on as he represents Lawrence on the world stage.
Meanwhile, the district held its first post-referendum community conversation about the upcoming building projects. Superintendent Dr. Klim, along with administrators and the project architect, answered questions and shared plans with residents in a spirit of transparency and collaboration. If you're interested in learning more, the next update will be at the December 10th Board of Education meeting, and another community conversation is scheduled for February 18th.
Our district leaders have also been sharing their expertise beyond Lawrence. Teachers and administrators recently presented at statewide conferences on topics like critical thinking and artificial intelligence, leading with joy and impact, and climate change education. Dr. Klim and her team even presented on how Lawrence passed its ninety-eight million dollar referendum using authentic voices and community partnerships. It's great to see Lawrence educators inspiring others across New Jersey.
Last week, while sophomores and juniors tackled the PSATs at the high school, other students participated in meaningful activities too. Freshmen heard from motivational speaker Darron Harley about mindset and making positive choices, while seniors practiced real-world skills in a "Game of Life" workshop that included interview preparation. It was a full morning of learning for everyone.
The district also came together to celebrate Diwali, the cherished holiday honoring the triumph of light over darkness. Across all schools, students dressed in festive attire, shared presentations, and learned about the rich traditions and values of this beautiful celebration. It's moments like these that make our community so special.
Now, an important reminder for your calendars. School will be closed for students on Tuesday, November 5th for a professional development day. Then, schools are closed again on November 6th and 7th for the NJEA Convention. That's three days in a row with no school, so plan accordingly. The Lawrence Recreation Department is offering a School's Out Camp for kids ages five to eleven on November 6th and 7th at Lawrence Village Park if you need some morning activities.
Quick hits on upcoming events: there's a thrift sale at the high school this Saturday from eight until one-thirty in the cafeteria, with everything priced between one and five dollars. The Lawrence Township Education Foundation's handbag bingo is coming up on November 17th, and tickets are selling fast. And don't forget, the Lawrence Booster Club has Lawrence swag available for order — sweatshirts, tank tops, windbreakers, and more.
So to recap: celebrate our Milken Award winner Jeanette Capritti and World Series manager John Schneider, mark your calendars for those school closures next month, and check out the upcoming community events. It's been an exciting week in Lawrence schools, and there's plenty more to come.
That's your Lawrence Township Public Schools roundup. Thanks for staying connected, and here's to another great week of learning and community!
