Clinton Township Newsletter

1 2 a u g u s t 2 0 2 6 W W W . C L I N T O N T W P N E W S L E T T E R . C O M www.ctsdnj.org C L I N T O N T O W N S H I P S C H O O L N E W S I N O U R S C H O O L S : Spruce Run Preschool N e w B e g i n n i n g s a t S p r u c e R u n Preschool! Preschool is such a special time. For so many of our families, this is their child's very first experience with school, the first time they'll make a friend on their own, follow a new routine, or realize they can do things independently. It's a big milestone, and it's an honor to be part of it alongside our families during these early years. I'm looking forward to the 2026-2027 year as the Principal of Spruce Run Preschool, and for me, it's a bit of a full-circle moment. Spruce Run is actually where I started my career in Clinton Township School District, back in the early 1990s. A lot has changed since then, but walking back into this building, it's still recognizably the same place, with the same focus on taking care of kids. Most recently, I was Principal at PMG, and I'm grateful for the time I spent there with a great group of children, staff and families. Now I'm excited to bring the experience I've gained along the way back to the place where it all started, and put it to work for the students and families here at Spruce Run. But what I'm really looking forward to is our students. I hope all of our returning students had a wonderful summer, and I'm excited to welcome them back. And for the students who will be walking through our doors at SRPS for the very first time, I'm truly thrilled to be part of that big moment alongside their families. Starting preschool is a big step, and we're going to make sure it's a warm and exciting one, and we take seriously what it means to partner with families as they take that first step into the world of education. We have a lot of great things planned this year, and I can't wait to get started. Thanks for the warm welcome so far. I'm looking forward to meeting more of you soon! – Melissa Goad, Principal, Spruce Run Preschool Patrick McGaheran School It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as the new Principal of Patrick McGaheran School. From everything I have learned so far, PMG is a school where students, families, and staff work together to create a caring, supportive, and rigorous learning environment, and I am excited to build upon that strong foundation. A little about myself. I live in Hillsborough with my husband and two daughters. Education has always been my passion. I earned my Bachelor of Music Education and Master's degree in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey and am currently pursuing my doctoral degree in Educational Leadership. I began teaching in 2004 and transitioned to leadership in 2016, holding various roles as a Supervisor, Assistant Principal, and Principal. I believe the strongest schools are built through open communication, mutual respect, high expectations, and a shared commitment to helping every child succeed. My Commitments for PMG: • Partnership: We work hand in hand with families to support each child's journey. • Respect: We model and teach kindness, empathy, and appreciation for differences. • Excellence: We hold high expectations for learning and growth, and we support each other in meeting them. • Joy in Learning: We celebrate childhood through meaningful engagement, discovery, and connection. To my PMG students: I can't wait to meet each of you! Since I'm new to your school, I thought I'd tell you a few things about myself. I'm a mom to two daughters, ages 7 and 13, and we have a cute — but sometimes very naughty — dog named Wally. I love reading, gardening, and music, so don't be surprised if you catch me singing in the hallways! When I was in third grade, I decided I wanted to be a teacher, and I was lucky enough to make that dream come true. After many years teaching, I became a Principal because I wanted to help create a school where every child feels safe, challenged, and excited to learn each day. I know we're going to have an amazing year together, and I can't wait to learn about all the wonderful things that make each of you "PAW-some"! As I complete my transition this summer, I'll be hosting opportunities for families to stop by, say hello, and get to know me. More information, along with my contact information, will be shared soon. Thank you for welcoming me into the PMG community. I look forward to meeting each of you and beginning a wonderful year of learning and growing together. – Warmly, Jen Sernotti, Principal Round Valley School We are excited to welcome back our new and returning 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders to Round Valley School for what promises to be an incredible school year! We hope you had an amazing summer making memories with family and friends, enjoying new experiences, and taking time to relax and recharge. As we begin a new year together, we look forward to hearing all about your summer adventures. The dedicated teachers and staff at Round Valley School are eager to welcome students back into our classrooms. Our team has been preparing for the year ahead and is excited to reconnect with returning students while getting to know those who are new to our school community. When the school year begins, we will continue to instill a love of learning in all areas. Our goal is to foster curiosity, creativity, and a growth mindset while providing meaningful academic experiences that help students reach their full potential. Through engaging lessons, collaborative learning opportunities, and hands-on activities, students will be encouraged to think critically, solve problems, and develop the skills they need for future success. In addition to strong academic programs, students will have opportunities to explore their creative side through the arts and participate in a variety of club offerings. Whether students discover a new passion, strengthen an existing interest, or build new friendships, these experiences help create a well-rounded and enriching educational journey. As the new Principal of Round Valley School, I am thrilled to join this wonderful community and look forward to meeting the students and families who make our school such a special place. I am excited to partner with you in supporting our students' growth, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating meaningful experiences throughout the year. Together, we can ensure that every child feels connected, confident, and successful. Enjoy the remaining days of summer, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone back to Round Valley School! – Janell Smolk, Principal RVS Clinton Township Middle School As the 2026-2027 school year draws near, we're excited to welcome back familiar faces and greet the newest members of our CTMS family. Our staff remains dedicated to cultivating a school environment that is safe, welcoming, and intellectually engaging for every student. Middle school is a time of growth, discovery, and transition, and we're here to support every student along the way. We can't wait for an amazing 2026- 2027 school year with our CTMS Hawks! My name is Lori Lubieski- Hutmaker (Mrs. L-Hut), and I am excited to begin the year as the Interim Principal at Clinton Township Middle School. I began my career as a United States History educator, teaching at both the middle and high school levels. I then became an Assistant Principal at Lenape Valley Regional High for ten years. After spending time at home to care for family, I was the Assistant Principal at Madison Junior School before becoming a Principal in Cranford. After retiring from Cranford as the Principal of Orange Avenue School, I began working as an Interim Principal and Assistant Principal in several districts at both the Elementary and Middle School levels. I look forward to working with the Clinton Township families and staff as we embark on the 2026 - 2027 school year. When I am not working, I can be found traveling all over to hockey rinks, cheering on my daughter. My name is Stephanie Rosa, and I am delighted to introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal at Clinton Township Middle School. As I begin this new chapter, I wanted to take a moment to share a bit about my background and my excitement for the year ahead. I have had the privilege of serving our district for the past 20 years in a variety of roles. I began my career as a Special Education teacher, where I discovered my passion for supporting students of all learning styles and abilities. From there, I had the opportunity to serve as Supervisor of Special Services, working closely with staff, families, and students across the district to ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive. Most recently, I served as Principal of Spruce Run Preschool, an experience that deepened my commitment to building strong school communities rooted in trust, collaboration, and high expectations for all. Over the coming weeks, I look forward to meeting many of you, whether at school events, in the hallways, or during conversations about your child's experience.

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