Upcoming Events
5/27/2013
- Schools Closed- Memorial Day 6/10/2013
6/20/2013
6/21/2013
6/24/2013
Important Message from Dr. Nisonoff
Dear Parents and Residents of Emerson:
School safety and security has always been a major priority for the Emerson School District. Our security plans have been developed by a dedicated team of educators and law enforcement personnel. Our plans are constantly updated and our schools and teachers drill plans such as lockdown and evacuations monthly. While we have always recognized that no one can guarantee 100% safety, we are constantly looking at ways to improve security and minimize the risks our children and staff are exposed to. The events of last week’s shooting will, no doubt, motivate us to reexamine our policies and procedures. This will be a process that will include working directly with Chief Rossi and the Emerson Police Department. The details of this recent event will provide data and information that will inform our planning. It is important for all (educators, parents and community members) to not react based on emotions and with information gleaned from the media. Modifications to our operations will be considered utilizing the most reliable resources available including consultation with experts in the field of school security.
This weekend, we have consulted with Police Chief Rossi. The Emerson Police will provide an increased police presence at our schools over the next few days while we assess the data that evolves. Our administrative team has met with our district specialists (counselors and child study team personnel) to prepare our teachers to receive our children on Monday. In addition, we have prepared guidance for parents looking for advice on how to approach this tragedy with their children and have posted information below. We will be working with our teachers and ask that you, our parents, assist us by taking the time to discuss these events with your child. We encourage limiting children’s exposure to the media including TV and online sources as the news may be overwhelming and inappropriate in the days ahead.
Our goal is to reassure our kids and parents that our schools are safe. It is important that normal routines continue, so please make sure to send your child to school each day. Should your child experience any signs of anxiety regarding these events, please contact someone at your child’s school and seek professional assistance.
Sincerely,
Philip H. Nisonoff, Ed.D.
Interim Superintendent of Schools
Links for Parents
Safe and Secure Schools Flyer
Safe and Secure Schools Flyer
Talking to Children About Violence - CIGNA Behavioral Health
William Whalen Accepted into New Jersey Music Educators Association All-State Band
Congratulations to William Whalen who was accepted into the NJMEA (New Jersey Music Educators Association) All-State Band on Euphonium. William was one of hundreds of students from many of the high schools from around the state to audition for All State Band. William is only the second student from Emerson to ever make this ensemble- the top honors ensemble in the state. The All State Concert took place on Saturday February 23rd at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, NJ.
Six Students Accepted to North Jersey Schools Music Association Elementary Honors Band
Six students from Villano Elementary School have been accepted into the NJSMA (North Jersey Schools Music Association) Elementary Honors Band- sixth graders Jared Balsam on Bass Clarinet, Jennifer Lorber on Percussion, Benjamin Zhu on Trumpet, and Sophia Zuo on Flute; and fifth graders Veronica Abad on Euphonium and James Becker on Trombone. Students throughout all of North Jersey were nominated by their band directors. In the second year of the festival’s running, there were 60 directors who nominated 484 students. Out of the 484 students there were a total of 276 who were accepted into two 6th grade bands and one 5th grade band. Students will prepare music in advance for the festival, which takes place on Saturday, May 4th at Columbia High School in Maplewood.
Two Students Accepted into Fresh Perspectives 2013 Art Exhibit
A painting by Marc Clouse and a mixed media work by Nicole Sanchez were accepted to the Morris Museum Fresh Perspectives 2013 exhibit. Fresh Perspectives is a juried exhibition featuring 50 works of art created by outstanding high school artists throughout New Jersey. The artwork of these talented students includes sculpture, drawing, painting, photography, and mixed media pieces.
