Dear Holmdel Township School Community,
I hope this message finds you well and recovering from what has been an historic weather event.
I want to express my sincere appreciation to our students, families, and staff for your understanding and patience as the school district made decisions focused first and foremost on safety. While closures and a delayed opening are never ideal, the conditions required careful action to ensure we could return to learning with minimal risk.
I also want to extend deep gratitude to our community partners who worked tirelessly throughout the storm and its aftermath. Special thanks go to Mayor Rocco Impreveduto and the township committee for their steady leadership and for marshaling all available resources. The efforts of the Holmdel Department of Public Works and our own buildings and grounds staff were extraordinary, working around the clock to clear roadways, manage facilities, and prepare our campuses for a safe reopening.
We are equally grateful to the members of the Holmdel Police Department, the Holmdel Fire Department and our EMS partners whose dedication ensured community safety during a challenging time. Their professionalism and commitment exemplify the best of public service.
Thanks to these collective efforts, we are pleased to be back up and running and focused on the important work of teaching and learning. I appreciate the community’s continued partnership and understanding. |
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Over the past several weeks, the Board of Education’s negotiations committee, district administration, and representatives of the Holmdel Township Education Association engaged in extensive and productive discussions aimed at reaching a new local collective bargaining agreement. These sessions required significant time and collaboration from all sides, reflecting a shared commitment to our educators and the students they serve.
I am pleased to report that those efforts have yielded a memorandum of agreement on a new agreement. This outcome reflects thoughtful compromise and recognizes the value of our faculty and staff while maintaining fiscal responsibility. As part of these negotiations, the Board was able to forgo consideration of outsourcing custodial services, a topic that generated community discussion. Our custodial staff remains an integral part of the district team.
The Holmdel Board of Education is scheduled to vote on the agreement at tonight’s meeting. If approved, the new contract will provide stability and clarity moving forward, supporting both our educators and the district’s long-term strategic goals.
I want to acknowledge the dedication of all participants in this process. Negotiations of this magnitude require patience and perseverance, and the hours invested by the Board’s negotiations team, district administration, and the HTEA bargaining team demonstrate a shared commitment to excellence. Agreements such as this are the foundation of strong educational systems and ultimately benefit our students.
We will provide additional updates following the Board’s vote. Thank you to everyone who contributes to making our schools and community a place of learning and collaboration. |
The Balance Project is sponsoring an important and timely opportunity for our school community, and we are pleased to share it with you.
Please join us for a live webinar with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath, a neuroscientist, former teacher and author whose work focuses on how students learn best in today’s increasingly digital world. Dr. Horvath has testified before Congress on learning and educational technology and is widely recognized for translating brain science into practical, accessible guidance for schools, families, and education leaders.
This session will explore what learning looks like in the modern classroom and how we can continue making thoughtful, informed decisions about balancing traditional instructional methods with technology-based tools. Rather than framing the conversation as “pro-technology” or “anti-technology,” this webinar will offer a research-based discussion centered on attention, memory, student well-being, and how we approach educational choices with intention and care.
We encourage families and staff to consider joining this engaging and informative discussion.
What Brain Science Says About Ed Tech: Live Q&A with Dr. Jared Cooney Horvath
March 2, 2026, 8:00pm ET
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We are proud to celebrate an outstanding achievement by Holmdel High School student-athlete Lukas Lundh, who captured the NJSIAA Group 2 Championship in the High Jump this past Saturday.
Competing against some of the top athletes in the state, Lukas delivered an exceptional performance to earn the Group 2 state title, an accomplishment that reflects not only his talent, but also his dedication, discipline, and countless hours of preparation. Winning a state sectional championship is a significant milestone in any athletic career, and Lukas rose to the occasion with focus and determination.
His season, however, is far from over. Lukas has qualified for the New Jersey Meet of Champions on March 8, where he will compete in both the High Jump and the Triple Jump. This prestigious event brings together the very best athletes from across all groups in the state, representing the highest level of high school track and field competition in New Jersey.
Entering the Meet of Champions, Lukas is currently ranked 4th in the state in both the High Jump and the Triple Jump, an extraordinary accomplishment that speaks to his versatility and elite-level performance across multiple events. To be ranked among the top four athletes statewide in two separate jumping events is a testament to his athleticism and competitive drive.
The Holmdel community looks forward to cheering Lukas on as he represents our school on one of the biggest stages in New Jersey high school track and field. We wish him continued success on March 8 and congratulate him on an already remarkable season.
Congratulations, Lukas, Holmdel is proud of you! |
As part of our district’s recognition of Random Acts of Kindness Day, the High School Youth Alliance, alongside Student Assistance Counselor Cathy Kudisch, continued a valued annual tradition.
Last week, the group hosted their Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Brunch for staff, providing coffee, donuts, bagels, and fresh fruit as a small but meaningful token of appreciation. The event gave students the opportunity to thank faculty and staff for their ongoing support while encouraging everyone to take part in acts of kindness.
This brunch was one of several activities held across the district in celebration of Random Acts of Kindness Day, all centered on promoting gratitude, connection, and community. We thank the Youth Alliance and Ms. Kudisch for their leadership in helping to spread kindness throughout our school. #LiveHolmdelBlue |
Holmdel Township Public Schools is proud to congratulate Mrs. Denise Wrubel, District Supervisor of Social Studies, Gifted and Talented, and Supplemental Programs, on being named Administrator of the Year by the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children.
This distinguished honor recognizes her exceptional leadership and lasting impact in the field of gifted education. Through her thoughtful guidance and commitment to excellence, Mrs. Wrubel has strengthened programming, expanded opportunities for advanced learners, and supported staff in delivering rigorous, engaging instruction.
Mrs. Wrubel will be formally recognized at the NJAGC Conference on April 17.
We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Wrubel and grateful for her continued leadership and dedication to our students and school community. |
A standalone budget newsletter with key information on the District’s proposed 2026-27 budget, including our financial context, priorities, and planning timeline. If you missed it, you can review all of the materials here: January 29th Budget Newsletter |
The Social Institute: New A.I. Family Course is Live!
We’re excited to introduce a new Family Course now available through our partnership with The Social Institute: Navigating an A.I.-Driven World: Helping Our Children Foster a Healthy Relationship with A.I.
Artificial intelligence is becoming a regular part of how students learn, communicate, and create. While A.I. can be a powerful tool, it also brings important questions around responsible use, privacy, digital reputation, and long-term impact.
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- Understand how A.I. is being used by children today
- Encourage ethical and responsible A.I. habits
- Protect your child’s personal information and online footprint
- Have meaningful conversations about technology at home
Next Steps:
If you have not already, register for your free account for The Toolkit. Many families refer to this as the CliffsNotes of social media and technology! Go to the Toolkit, click Activate Account, and enter our school code: 55b5197A69096D
Access the Family Courses:
As a reminder, all courses are designed to be self-paced and can be completed on your own schedule.
As your child’s school district, we’re honored to be your partner on this journey. We understand that each household has its own values and approach to technology, and we fully respect that. This programming is not about prescribing rules or parenting strategies. It’s about offering ideas and tools that you can use in whatever way fits your family best. |
The Holmdel Theatre Guild (HTG) invites the community to step into a world of enchantment this March with its production of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Staged at the Holmdel High School Auditorium, this high-energy musical is designed for theater lovers of all ages - even those who have never attended a school production.
Performance Dates & Times: - Thursday, March 12 at 7:00 pm
- Friday, March 13 at 7:00 pm
- Saturday, March 14 at 7:00 pm (Special Pre-Show Event at 5:30 pm for additional fee)
A Fresh Take on a Timeless Classic Forget what you know about the animated film. This show is the 2013 Broadway revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s original television special. It features a contemporary, witty script with Cinderella as the hero of her own destiny. Audiences will enjoy the beloved musical score, featuring songs such as "In My Own Little Corner", "Ten Minutes Ago," and the showstopping “Stepsisters Lament”. The show will feature stunning costumes and plenty of "how-did-they-do-that" stage magic.
An Interactive Event for Families
The HTG is offering unique incentives to make this a full evening of community entertainment:
- Kids in Costume Go Free: Children ages 12 and under who arrive dressed as their favorite character receive free admission at the door.
- Character Meet-and-Greets: Arrive early for any performance to take photos with Cinderella, the Prince, the Fairy Godmother, and step family.
- Storytime with Cinderella: A special event for young fans on Saturday, March 14, at 5:30 pm. This event requires the purchase of a separate ticket.
- Senior Group Tickets: Discounted group rates are available for senior centers.
"We wanted to create a true community event that connects generations," says Dr. Jim DeVivo, Director. "Seeing the magic through the eyes of children in costume and sharing this story with our local seniors creates a theater experience that goes far beyond the school walls."
Tickets & Logistics Seating is General Admission. Patrons are encouraged to purchase in advance to secure the best views. The auditorium is fully accessible with free adjacent parking.
About the Holmdel Theatre Guild The Holmdel Theatre Guild is an award-winning student company producing high-quality theatrical works. Follow the Guild on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for behind-the-scenes previews. |
The Holmdel Foundation for Educational Excellence (HFEE) marked the completion of another innovative project for the Holmdel Township School District with the ribbon cutting of a new Aquaponics Learning Lab at Holmdel High School on Tuesday, February 10. To read the full article click here. |
Plans for a new state-of-the-art weight room are moving forward, a space that will enhance student wellness, athletic development, and school pride for years to come. This project is being supported through community sponsorships led by the Holmdel Touchdown Club, with contribution levels ranging from $100 to $25,000, each recognized through name or logo displays within the new facility.
From Platinum and Gold sponsors to Blue and Grey supporters, every donation directly helps outfit the gym with premium equipment and create an elite training environment for our students.
Additional details, including sponsorship tiers, donation options, and QR codes, are included in the graphic below for those who wish to participate in this exciting initiative.
Together, we continue building a stronger, healthier Holmdel — always Live Holmdel Blue! |
Kindergarten 2026–2027 registration opened on Friday, January 16th. Please visit the Holmdel School District website, www.holmdelschools.org, to access the Kindergarten Registration Portal. Families may upload all required registration documentation and, if desired, schedule an optional online appointment with the school. In-person registration appointments will take place Wednesday through Friday, February 24–26, at Village Elementary School. An in-person appointment is not required if documents are submitted through the portal.
On the home page, select the “Registration Information” box, then click the “2026–2027 PreK and Kindergarten New Student Registration Only” link to create a portal account and, if documents are not submitted through the portal, schedule an appointment. |
Registration is now open for the 2026–27 Holmdel Public Schools Pre-School program! Secure your child’s spot for a year of early learning, growth, and fun. Plus, don’t miss our Pre-School Summer Enrichment programs, designed to keep little minds curious and engaged all summer long. Learn more and register today!
Preschool Registration Link: Go HERE Summer Enrichment Program Link: Go HERE |
Following a highly successful inaugural summer, Camp Invention returns to Holmdel for its second year, offering students an engaging, hands-on STEM experience designed to inspire creativity, collaboration, and innovative thinking. Through interactive challenges and real-world problem solving, campers bring their ideas to life while building confidence and having fun along the way.
Registration is now open. Families can save $25 on Week One (July 13–16, 2026) with promo code FUN25 (expires March 31, 2026). An additional $60 savings is available for Week Two using the exclusive registration link provided in the Week One confirmation email.
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- March 20 - School Closed EID al Fitr
- April 1 - Early Dismissal
- April 2-6 Spring Break
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The board will hold its monthly regular public meeting on Wednesday, February 25th, at 7:00 PM in the High School media center. The meetings are also accessible via Zoom link and will be posted to the district webpage within 24 hours of the meeting.
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This life, this purpose, this American spirit that we hold dear - we are not alone. We do it together-Dan Crenshaw
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I thank you for your time and consideration and wish you a safe and peaceful week ahead.
Dr. J. Scott Cascone |
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